Building’s potential significant in council’s vision for St Paul’s Square redevelopment

The former Wilko store in Bedford town centre is up for sale. Agents Kirkby Diamond are seeking offers in the region of £1.75 million. For the freehold of the 36,900 sq ft property in High Street. The three-storey property offers excellent potential for existing use, leisure and/or residential redevelopment, said Nathan George, associate and head of agency at Kitrkby Diamond’s Bedford office.

“While the closure of the Wilko store was undoubtedly a blow, the potential transformation of the building in a fantastic high street location could bring a welcome boost to the town centre,” Mr George (inset) added.

“The property offers a wonderful opportunity to an investor or developer to remodel the building and to attract new retail or leisure occupiers. We expect there to be a great deal of interest in acquiring the freehold of this important building.”

The property, whose frontages are grade II listed, overlooks St Paul’s Square. Bedford Borough Council has received £5 million funding improvements to St Paul’s Square opposite the property. Regeneration plans include a comprehensive development of the square to support a variety of outdoor events, activities and performances.

The objective of the council’s plans is to improve visitor experience, increased vibrancy and footfall and diversify the town centre’s offer to promote Bedford as a visitor destination.