Brent Cross shopping centre could see massive expansion as part of the Cricklewood Sidings regeneration project.

The centre's owner Hammerson plc is holding talks with developers and is now likely to play a key role in the ambitious scheme. This latest twist in the ten-year drive to regenerate Cricklewood raises the prospect of a huge regional shopping, leisure and housing complex.

Hammerson, which had previously viewed the project with some suspicion, went to the High Court in October last year to overturn government objections to expansion.

Town centre traders across the borough fear any Brent Cross expansion could cost them business. Cricklewood Redevelopment Ltd, masterminding the sidings project, this week said it would submit new plans for the 115-acre site next year.

But development manager Jonathan Joseph said Hammerson coming on board would not change the essence of the scheme, which could also now incorporate the results of public consultation. Plans for 2,500 homes, hotels, offices and shops as well as new rail links would remain at its heart, he said.

However, Mr Joseph admitted the "controversial" 40-storey tower previously the jewel in the crown of the £3billion project could fall victim to changes. It may be replaced by a series of slightly smaller buildings.

Barnet Council leader Alan Williams said the nature of the project made it vital that Brent Cross should be involved.

"A lot of the regeneration project requires integrated transport links with Brent Cross," he said. "It can't simply be a retail park, the plan is to create a new village including community improvements."

Hammerson plc was unavailable for comment.

October 24, 2001 17:29

MATTHEW NIXSON