New Mansfield store could create up to 90 jobs

A major toy chain is looking to open a store on a Mansfield retail park '“ which could create up to 90 new jobs.

Just months after Toys R Us opened on St Peter’s Retail Park, an application has been submitted to Mansfield District Council for Smyths Toys to open on neighbouring Portland Retail Park.

Peveril Securities, which owns the retail park, has applied to change the use of unit 12 to sell toys, children’s sports goods and equipment, bicycles and associated equipment, play equipment, baby equipment and electronic games, so Smyths can open in the unit.

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Smyths, which has 80 other outlets across the UK and Ireland, says if permission is granted, the shop would provide up to 30 full-time roles, plus an additional 60 seasonal jobs.

The company says this would have a “significant positive impact on employment” in the area.

The 2,034 sq metres unit has been vacant since 2012 since electrical giant Comet went into administration.

A planning and retail statement prepared by Signet Planning, the agent on the application, says: “The application is for the variation of a planning condition relating to the range of goods which can be sold from the retail park.

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“The application seeks to increase the range of goods that can be sold from unit 12 to enable Smyths Toys to occupy this unit.

“Smyths Toys is a leading provider of children’s entertainment products with more than 80 stores throughout the UK and Ireland.

“The company’s goal is to provide its consumers with an extensive range of high-quality products at competitive prices.

“The Smyths Toys business model has an emphasis on the bulky natiore of products and purchases, hence the clear need to occupy retail warehousing units.”

Kate Allsop, mayor of Mansfield, welcomed the application.

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She said: “Mansfield District Council has received an application for a change of use at Portland Retail Park.

“I am pleased a nationally known chain such as Smyt’s Toys would consider a base in Mansfield.

“It is a good boost for business and even better for parents in Mansfield.”