Stretford Mall, a landmark in the heart of Stretford for nearly 60 years, is now being demolished. The shopping centre, which opened as Arndale in the 1960s, was once considered 'bold, modern and full of energy', featuring fountains and tropical fish in tanks under the stairs. However, over the decades, it became tired and outdated, largely due to competition from the nearby Trafford Centre. The mall closed its doors to customers for the final time in February.
Demolition Progress
A seven-week 'soft strip'—removal of non-structural elements—has been completed by the construction company P.P O'Connor. Demolition has now moved to the main building structure, followed by foundation removal, drainage works, and construction of a new entrance road. These stages are expected to take around 26 weeks.
Regeneration Plans
The demolition paves the way for a wider regeneration of the area, which includes a park, shops, and hundreds of new homes. Outline permission for the scheme was granted in 2023. A new apartment block, up to 12 storeys, will contain 114 two-bed and 120 one-bed flats, plus 14 three-bed duplexes. Two commercial units on the ground floor are suited for retail, cafés, or small bars, with potential for spill-out seating in a new public square.
The new park will feature open lawns, a play area, planted gardens, and seating spaces. Future phases could bring the total number of new homes to over 750, including affordable homes.
A spokesperson for Trafford Council and Bruntwood said discarded items from former retailers were processed and recycled to avoid landfill.
