Gateway Retail Park, Beckton: B&Q opposes demolition plan

B&Q has opposed plans submitted to Newham Council that seek approval to knock down Gateway Retail Park in Claps Gate Lane, Beckton.

The application was made in December last year (2023) by UrBox Beckton Limited, seeking permission to "demolish the existing, dated retail park, while retaining the three busy drive-through units".

B&Q is one of 11 stores that make up Gateway Retail Park, which range from food and drink, DIY and pet stores. 

The store is one of eleven that make up the retail park (Image: Google Maps)UrBox's application proposes to undertake a major redevelopment of the site, turning four units into offices, and another four units into flexible industrial and warehousing space. 

The application has received backlash from B&Q and East Ham MP, Stephen Timms. 

On April 19 the store submitted their objection, saying it "strongly (objects)" to the proposal. 

It said: "B&Q is a long-established successful and popular business in the area and wishes to continue to trade from the premises.

"The store has a long standing and loyal local customer base and plays an active role in the local community, both economically and socially.

"This contribution and importance to the local community is evidenced through the current 39 public objections made against the proposed development."

There are now 48 objections by the public to the plans. 

Out of 50 responses on the council website, 48 are objecting (Image: Google Maps)A spokesperson for B&Q told this paper: "The Beckton store is not closing – the lease on the store runs until October 2027 and will remain open until at least then."

Mr Timms also submitted his objection to the idea. 

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He wrote: "I have been struck by the strength of residents' opposition to this proposal. 

"B&Q has operated on the site for almost 30 years, since 1996, and is highly valued by local residents.

"Other retailers in the Gateway Retail Park - Pets at Home, with its veterinary surgery, Halfords, Wren's Kitchens, and Tapi Carpets - also provide important services. 

"Their loss would be keenly felt by local residents. I hope that the council will refuse the application."