Basingstoke shops get 21st Century makeover with Eden inspired canopy

8 September, 2010

Exciting refurbishment plans have got underway at The Malls in Basingstoke, which will see the outdated shopping centre given a much needed facelift.

The main feature of the project is its new clear roof canopy which utilises the same technology used for the Eden Project domes.  Existing roof canopies are being removed for the installation of a new EFTE canopy, providing better protection from the bad weather, more natural light and allowing air to circulate.

The shopping centre will also have new shop fronts, outdoor landscaping and a new landmark gateway entrance which will give a fantastic first impression of the town to visitors.

Paul Nightingale, Project Manager, Wates Construction Ltd said: “We are working in close partnership with the Council to refurbish The Malls, the modern roof will not only be a striking feature for shoppers, but with the natural light and ventilation it will be much more sustainable.  We continually work with our clients to make sure we can maximise new technologies where ever possible to ensure our builds not only bring good value for our clients, but are future assets that will be long lasting.”   

Cabinet Member for Finance and Property Cllr James Lewin commented: “This is an exciting time for The Malls and for the borough as a whole.  This refurbishment has been a long time coming and was certainly a priority for us when we bought the shopping centre earlier in the year.

Cllr Lewin added: “This work will significantly improve the shopping centre and bring it into the 21st Century. It will not only be a much more modern and pleasant place to shop, but the centre will also contribute towards improving the overall image of the area and achieving the council’s long term vision for the borough.”

Owned by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, The Malls shopping centre is being refurbished by Wates Construction Ltd as part of a £5.9m scheme and is due for completion in summer 2011.

To view the plans for the scheme or for updates and information on The Malls during the works visit: www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/themalls.

To download a pdf of this press release click here

Categories: national delivery, refurbishment, shopping centre development, CR, southern home counties

Tags: Basingstoke, refurbishment, Shopping centre