Those working on the Scotch Corner Designer Village in North Yorkshire have said that the opening date of March 26, 2026, is still possible, and have said that they are looking forward to welcoming shoppers to the venue.
The 2026 date is for the first phase of the project, including the first shops, and Blue Diamond home, lifestyle and garden centre.
The retail development at Scotch Corner taken in February 2024 (Image: CHRIS BOOTH) Despite the masterplan being revealed by developers, the progress at the retail park, which will boast names including Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, Levi’s, Calvin Klein, Adidas and Joules, has been criticised in recent months, with the public and councillors saying ‘little to no work’ has happened on the site.
This includes the likes of top-name brands, such as Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, Levi’s, Calvin Klein, Adidas and Joules, among others.
Already, the project has been hit with several delays, which saw the retail and leisure destination initially scheduled to open in October 2023, before it was pushed back to September 2024, and then given the target date of March 2026.
Given the continued delays, concerns have been raised by councillors and members of the public about how realistic 2026 will be, with others going as far as to suggest that the Designer Village ‘may not happen’.
A mock-up of how the Scotch Corner Designer Village will look once built (Image: SCOTCH CORNER DESIGNER VILLAGE) One of those who has criticised the scheme and building progress is Councillor Angus Thompson, who covers the North Richmondshire division, which includes Scotch Corner.
Councillor Stuart Parsons, who covers the Richmond division, is one of the elected representatives who has spoken of his criticism of the development – asking for more communication with the developers and more answers from them about concerns.
He said: “The “development” at Scotch Corner has become known as “Coming Soon” in Richmond – that has been the promise year after year for what seems like ages.
“We have no idea what might finally appear on the site as communication from the developers appears to have stopped.
It is difficult to know what to say. New jobs will be welcome.
“Until we know what transport plans are being put into place there is continuing concern about the impact of the development on existing access to Richmond and beyond.
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“Scotch Corner roundabout is already congested.”
Meanwhile, some members of the public have expressed numerous concerns about the progress of the designer village – saying that they have seen ‘little progress’ on the site.
Despite these concerns, though, developers of the site have offered reassurances that the opening date in March 2026 will go ahead.
A spokesperson for the developers said: “Scotch Corner Designer Village is on track to open March 26th, 2026.
“We are very much looking forward to welcoming guests then to what will be the major destination in the wider region with wonderful shops and restaurants set in beautiful grounds.”