Last month, the Westgate Arcade in Queensgate Shopping Centre officially revealed its stunning new look and has already started to transform the perception of the historic arcade.
Although the launch was themed around the swinging 30s, the emphasis is very much on the future of one of Peterborough’s precious retail locations. Since the launch, the stores have reported an increase in footfall but more importantly, it is the perception of Westgate Arcade that has changed. From being a mismatch of colours, signs and an overall tired look, Westgate Arcade’s fresh and stylish glow is making both shoppers and tenants happy.
The Mayor of Peterborough, Councillor John Peach said: “The refurbished Westgate Arcade looks fantastic and it was great to meet the shop owners at the official launch.
“The investment has created an attractive new arcade for shoppers to enjoy and I hope it will draw new independent retailers to the city.”
For many, there was the chance to have a nostalgic trip down memory lane at a photography exhibition of Peterborough and the Arcade from the thirties to today. Mark Broadhead, Centre Director at Queensgate Shopping Centre, said: “The launch party was a splendid success and a fitting tribute to looking back at the past and celebrating the future of Westgate Arcade. The performers put on a great show and helped mark this special occasion and I would particularly like to thank the Mayor and Mayoress for attending. Here’s to many more years of success at the Westgate Arcade.”
The works on the Arcade began in May this year following extensive investment to revamp the Arcade with a stylish, sophisticated new look. The refurbishment included the installation of a new lighting scheme which utilises low energy and LED lighting, giving the Arcade a soft ambience whilst also reducing its environmental impact. The look also sees the replacement of the terracotta ceiling and brown shop fronts with a subtle slate blue colour palette, new signage, tiling and fascias for a more contemporary feel.
Mark adds: “These are exciting times for Queensgate and Peterborough. In 2015, we have already welcomed many new stores and seen others move to larger premises within the centre. With the extension to Marks and Spencer and the recently approved plans to deliver a £30m leisure offering including a multiplex cinema, the next few years will see us deliver an even greater customer experience. ”
Earlier this year, handmade burger co. opened its doors in the entrance of Westgate Arcade extending the centre’s food offering. Since then, Queensgate has welcomed in new retailers such as Tiger, Trespass, Help for Heroes, Lakeland and most recently to open, F.Hinds. The Peterborough shopping centre has also recently seen refurbishments of Oasis, FatFace, Menkind and Paperchase. Premium jewelers, Fraser Hart will soon be opening a flagship store on the lower mall next to Monsoon.
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