“Mixed feelings” as Coventry shopping centre revamp plan considered

A “tired” area of Coventry could be getting a facelift, with new shops and flats – and Coventry Live readers are having “mixed feelings” in our comments section on the plans due to go to the council for approval.

The proposed scheme for the Westmede centre in Whoberley would see a new Heron Foods store, and a block of flats on the land at 10 Whitaker Road. 65 parking spaces would also be provided, split between the customers and the residents.

A statement by agents CDRB Architects said the scheme will regenerate a brownfield site and provide a more modern and “viable” convenience store. It added: “The Westmede local centre has been identified for some additional development now that the local community facilities on the west side of Whitaker Road have been completed.”

READ MORE: Coventry clothing shop closes for good due to ‘debt issues’

“The area at the rear of the local centre is poorly laid out and is looking tired and in need of enhancement, which the application proposals will clearly achieve.” Plans were validated by the council this week and are yet to be decided on.

Raeder Artimussprout writes: “Mixed feelings about this… On the one hand, the whole complex is run down and depressing, so this could help cheer things up and bring in extra trade for all the businesses there.”

“Conversely, Heron Foods is an Iceland-type business as far as I know, so will they still provide all the services the existing store does More housing and less parking, hmmm.”

Commenter Ccfc1 says: “Sounds like a plan but who will be moving into them? Hopefully people from Coventry that are stuck in privately rented housing that they can’t afford, or living with parents because they can’t afford to move out.”

On our Facebook page, Diane Faulkner writes: “Once again in our City, two more shade giving trees sadly to be removed. Mitigation will be shrubs and tiny saplings (hopefully), adding less benefit to the area and our health.”

The plans can be viewed on the council’s planning portal under reference: PL/2024/0000452/FULM.

Where else in Coventry could a similar scheme work? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.