Plans to build a 250,000 sq ft retail scheme in Bray have taken tentative steps forward after Savills was appointed to secure a development partner for the project.The 2.4-acre site, previously known as the Florentine Centre, has been the subject of a number of retail-led proposals since 1996.Wicklow County Council – which owns the land – has recently sought the approval of An Bord Pleanála for a scaled down retail development providing opportunities for anchor stores, retail units, restaurants, offices and a cinema.The plans also incorporate the development of a central plaza with pedestrian access from Quinsborough Road.A decision on the planning application is due before the year end.The gross development value of the scheme is estimated at between €30m (£25.8m) and €35m (£30.1m), and Wicklow County Council hopes to have a development partner and contractor in place by March 2017, with a view to completion by the end of 2018.