Planning go-ahead for retro garage

Milton Keynes Citizen - by Richard Cooper

A Development which promises to celebrate Newport Pagnell's historic motoring significance has been given the go-ahead.

The council's development control committee has granted planning permission to a company called Woad Corner to transform the drab Shell petrol station on Northampton Road, on the edge of the town, into a retro garage complete with a 5,000sq ft bar, restaurant and filling station with 1950s-style pumps.

However, the proposal was originally recommended by city planners for refusal because it would "detract from the character and appearance" of the town.

Artist's impression of Woad Corner

Mick Pacey, who set up Woad Corner and also owns classic car dealers Export 56, said the project has taken five years to come together.

He said: "We shall be creating a really significant venue
worthy of Newport Pagnell, which is one of the world's most historically important motoring towns.

"It is sometimes forgotten that as well as Aston Martin and Lagonda, Newport Pagnell has important connections with many other famous marques including the 'Tickford' cars and even the town's eponymous car, the NP, produced here in the 1920s."

The site will also include 15,000sq ft of retail and office space, with garages and a showroom for classic motor cars.

The Woad Corner development was showcased at this year's Goodwood Revival, with a 7,000sq ft reproduction of the garage, and £40 million worth of rare Ferraris on display.

Mr Pacey has also been approached to replicate the concept in Japan, Italy, France, Germany and the USA.

Brian Hunt, chairman of Newport Pagnell Partnership, said: "It is very much in keeping with the automotive heritage which the town is renowned for around the world."