Waterstones looks set to make a welcome return to Epsom in time for Christmas after a planning application to open a branch in the town was submitted to the council.

Last week, the Epsom Guardian reported rumours circulating around the market town that the much-loved bookstore - which shut down its branch in The Ashley Centre in February 2012 - will be making a return, this time to the High Street.

The bookshop’s decision to exit Epsom’s shopping mall two years ago caused anger and disappointment and many residents have longed to see it return.

And now it looks like they will.

Adaire Properties submitted a planning application to Epsom Council three weeks ago to lease 5-7 Epsom High Street - the premises previously occupied by Sony Centre and Pizza Hut - as a new Waterstones bookshop.

The popular book chain has approached the developer’s agent, Lambert Smith Hampton, to open a new shop there.

Adaire Properties has also applied for planning permission to lease 11 Epsom High Street to restaurant chain The Loungers.

The developer is aiming for Waterstones to be occupying the premises "in time for Christmas trade".

In a planning statement submitted to the council, Lambert Smith Hampton said: "Pre-application correspondence from Epsom and Ewell Borough Council’s planning officer confirmed that the council would be very supportive of the proposal to return vacant town centre shops to active use, with the potential return of a renowned bookshop to the town centre."

A spokeswoman for Epsom Council said the planning application is unlikely to go to the council's planning committee at this stage - meaning that it is likely it will be approved without having to be presented to the committee. 

The choice of location is sure to please residents and traders who have repeatedly expressed concerns that footfall falls off sharply at the Upper High Street end of the street.

Commenting on the rumours of a return on our website, Spencer Hannan said: "If it can reduce the amount of charity shops and pawnbrokers in the town it can only be a good thing.

"It would be nice to have a decent bookshop again."

Johnny Cash said: "At the top end of the high street will show other retailers there is hope and not just charity shops.

"If more people had a look in the charity shops they will be surprised at the amazing stuff they sell and amazing prices all for good causes.

"Be brave head up the road. Bravo Waterstones."

Homecomer said: "Yes.  Please come back. I remember my UCA days and picking up the books that I needed, pottering around with my mates, buying books for my kids.

"Traditional books are beautiful things. Waterstones would be a first brick in the process of rebuilding Epsom town centre."

When asked about the rumours last week, Waterstones refused to confirm or deny the rumours, but said it would keep the Epsom Guardian updated on any developments.

A spokeswoman said: "There is no information I can share with you on that."

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