Proposals for a major revamp of the Manor Walks Shopping Centre in Northumberland have been submitted to the county council. The scheme would primarily affect the western entrance to the Cramlington shopping centre in a bid to "revitalise" the site.
Background and ownership
The shopping centre is owned by the council's arms-length development company Advance, although it was revealed earlier this year it hopes to sell the centre in 2029. The company's predecessor, Arch, controversially purchased Manor Walks in 2016 for £78 million.
However, subsequently council bosses have said that represented an overpay, and there is a desire for the company to get the centre off the books in a bid to reduce debt. In April, bosses said there were plans being developed to revamp parts of the centre to ensure the company receives as high a price as possible - and those proposals have now been unveiled.
Proposed changes
Advance say the changes would "demonstrate how the western entrance of Manor Walks can be revitalised to bring renewed activity and vitality to the shopping centre". The western entrance currently houses the likes of Poundland, Iceland and the British Heart Foundation alongside several vacant units.
Offices above the shopping centre are also vacant. It is hoped the revamp will entice new operators into the units, while it would also see seven new retail units created via both demolition and extension.
Other changes include new frontages and the creation of a new "town centre plaza". It is hoped the changes will improve pedestrian connectivity with the rest of the town centre.
A design and access statement submitted as part of the application stated: "The proposals deliver a high-quality and durable development that enhances the existing structure, strengthens its relationship with the surrounding environment, and provides a modern, well-integrated architectural solution."
Next steps
Elsewhere, the nearby Asda store would receive its own, separate entrance. It is envisaged that the new town square will be used for events once work is completed.
The plans are currently live on Northumberland County Council's planning portal, with a public consultation ongoing. Once completed, a decision will be made at a public planning committee due to Advance's association with the county council.
