MUCH-needed entertainment facilities could be on the way to Droitwich as part of a future development idea to expand the western side of the town centre.

The expansion could also draw well-known brands of national retailers to the spa, according to one of the town centre's owners.

As previously reported by the Worcester News, a plan for an out-of-town retail park was refused by Wychavon district councillors because the owners of the Salters shopping centre said they intended to expand the town centre dramatically. Although no formal plans have been drawn up, the idea concerns a revamp of a 12,000 sq metre site which stretches from Morrison's supermarket, across a car park and as far as Covercroft.

Now, a director of Kandahar real estate, which owns the shopping centre, has further outlined the area's potential.

Mike Tyler said: "The High Street and St Andrew's Square are very attractive but not suitable for national retailers. Smaller shops are ideal for those areas because they are very attractive and perfect for boutiques and independents."

He believes there is room for a complementary development covering a large footprint' which could attract bigger names and offer more entertainment options.

Mr Tyler said: "The potential with that site is to have entertainment.

"The town needs it. It doesn't have a nightlife. It needs something rather than a pub-only offering.

"We could create something which attracts people outside normal retailing hours."

The news will be welcomed by many Droitwich people because concerns have previously been raised about the town's lack of services suitable for young people.

The developer is currently working on a planning brief for the expansion with Wychavon District Council.

Kandahar has just revealed plans for its latest development, which will start this summer. It includes a new department store, a coffee house and the revamping of Salters precinct.