Croydon’s Centrale and Whitgift shopping centers are making a comeback with the addition of seven new stores and the renewal of 11 leases from existing companies. This is a positive development after a period of uncertainty surrounding the future of the borough’s main shopping hubs.
The owners, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), have revealed a lineup of new businesses that will be opening in the central Croydon malls. These include unique offerings such as London’s only pinball club, Pinball Republic, as well as Dressmode, Maflora, Rebel Clothing, and homewares company Stacks.
In addition to the new signings, several well-known retailers have decided to extend their leases. Household names like House of Fraser, Sports Direct, Claire’s, Holland & Barrett, and Waterstones have committed to staying in the shopping centers for a longer period.
The iconic former department store, which closed its doors in 2013, has been hidden behind vibrant hoardings since January. Mayor Jason Perry expressed his excitement about the upcoming development, stating that it will bring a fresh and dynamic atmosphere back to the High Street, instilling a sense of community pride. The transformation is expected to kick off early next year, offering local businesses a great opportunity to flourish.
Mayor Perry’s optimism about Croydon’s retail scene is shared by many, as the area has been struggling in recent years. The joint venture between Westfield and Hammerson for the redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre and Centrale shopping center faced financial challenges, exacerbated by the pandemic. However, last year URW took full control of the development plans, signaling a new chapter for the project.
Overall, the revitalization of the Whitgift and Centrale shopping centers is a promising sign for the local community. With new stores joining the lineup and established retailers showing commitment, Croydon’s retail landscape is poised for a positive transformation. As we look forward to the reopening of the iconic former department store and the introduction of exciting new businesses, there is hope for a return to better days in the heart of the borough.