Evans and University of York partnership secures string of lettings at Kimberlow Hill Retail Park

Evans Property Group, in partnership with the University of York, has secured a series of lettings at its Kimberlow Hill Retail Park, located at Kimberlow Rise.

The park, situated adjacent to the University of York Heslington East campus, is being developed to provide a new Medical Centre, retail parade and convenience store to serve the campus’ needs and local community.

The Kimberlow Hill Retail Park is scheduled for completion later this month with planned opening dates in early 2018.

The Medical Centre will be run by Unity Health and open in March 2018. The facility extends 20,000 sq ft and will attract an estimated 75,000 visitors annually.

A 4,500 sq ft convenience store will operate as a NISA Local, whilst Greggs and sandwich chain Subway are set to be added to the line-up of retailers.

Evans’ partnership with the University of York has already delivered three student residencies and facilities totalling around 2000 beds and £100m of investment.

Heslington East has seen significant growth in recent years, which includes a range of academic and residential facilities and a new sports village, which features a swimming pool, all-weather pitches, a fitness suite and studios, and an outdoor cycle track and velodrome.

Around 16,000 students attend the University alongside 4,500 staff and the Kimberlow Hill Retail Park forms part of the University’s strategy to provide both local residents with retail facilities as well as a brand new Medical Centre operated by Unity Health.

James Pitt, development director at Evans Property Group, commented: “The ongoing investment into expanding the University’s student housing provision resulted in the need for supporting health and retail facilities close to the 161-acre Heslington East campus.

“We are delighted to have delivered the first phase of retail and convenience store which brings a mix of both independent retailers and well known high street brands to the area, anchored by a new healthcare facility.”

Jon Greenwood, director of the University of York’s Commercial Services Department, added: “The ongoing development of the University’s Heslington East campus, along with its growing population of students and staff has resulted in the need to improve the facilities we provide.

“This development, supported by the Evans property group, will offer students, staff, the local community new retail opportunities, and an enhanced medical care provision.”