Telford Shopping Centre reveals Northern Quarter plans
Telford Shopping Centre has unveiled exciting plans for the next phase of development in the town centre, with the creation of a new Northern Quarter.
Proposals have been submitted to Telford & Wrekin Council to redevelop the former ASDA store to create up to seven large, modern stores – a total of over 70,000 sq ft.
The Northern Quarter’s striking contemporary design by architects Benoy will transform the area. A new façade including 3D effect Trespa cladding will face Lawn Central, while a dramatic 27 ft high metallic ‘drum’ will create a sense of arrival when approaching the town centre from the north east while also hiding a service yard from general view.
Five new stores will face Red Oak car park, creating a more dynamic approach to the main shopping centre entrance. The entrance itself will be completely rebuilt with a gateway tower to match the new Southern Quarter development.
A further two stores will face onto Ash Grey car park adjacent to the existing entrance to Primark and BHS. A key feature of the plans is the creation of an attractive, engaging pedestrian route around the building, punctuated by areas of public art, wayfinding, signage, seating and planting.
The proposals are the latest part of the five-year masterplan for Telford Shopping Centre, which was given the green light by Telford & Wrekin Council at the end of 2013 and will increase the 1m sq ft centre by as much as 80%.
The first phase, the Southern Quarter, was granted planning consent in November 2014 and will see a cluster of restaurants and cafés created adjacent to the Southwater development. Construction of the Southern Quarter is due to start this Summer (2015) and advanced discussions are taking place with restaurant operators to bring new brands to Telford.
Tim Binnington, Chairman at Sovereign Land, which is managing the redevelopment for the shopping centre on behalf of the owners, said that the Northern Quarter would help attract new retailers to the town:
“The new Northern Quarter could transform this part of the town centre, creating a more attractive shopping environment and complementing our café and restaurant development at the Southern Quarter.
“Modern retailers are looking for larger stores which this development will provide, enabling us to attract new brands and the latest concepts to Telford.”
The planning application will be soon be available to view at www.telford.gov.uk/planningapplications where members of the public are able to submit feedback on the proposals.
