EVESHAM’S Riverside Shopping Centre could be given a dramatic new lease of life after centre chiefs released initial images of how a proposed redevelopment could look.
The struggling venue has seen the departure of a number of shops in recent years and was purchased by Chase Commercial and its financial backers 12 months ago.
Since then developers have been exploring options for what can be done to breathe new life back into Evesham and have now unveiled these drawings ahead of formal public consultation next year.
The proposed open-air venue will feature a reduction in the number of shops alongside restaurants and cafés, leisure and community facilities and could even feature a boutique hotel and apartments
Developers hope the proposals will revitalise Evesham and Julian Meredith, managing director at Chase Commercial Ltd said the plans offered an ‘exciting opportunity’ which Vale residents could be proud of.
“It is early days and the design process is a fluid one but we are now discussing the concepts with potential occupiers to help inform the design process, as well as releasing these images to assure local people of our commitment to enhancing the town centre,” he said.
“We are also committed to maintaining the existing shopping centre, which will continue to trade as normal ahead of any future development.
“We have also been working hard on the existing ownership and are extremely pleased with the progress we have made at Market Square, where vitality has returned with the additions of Orto Lounge, Coffee #1 and the soon to open wine bar.”
Options are still being considered for the Public Hall, which has been mothballed by previous owners.
Mr Meredith added: “The retail sector across the UK continues to experience challenging times as shopping patterns change and online competition grows.
“This seismic shift, coupled with the continued increase of out-of-town retail in Evesham at both The Valley and the recently announced Sinclair Retail Park, means the town centre must undergo significant redevelopment in order to provide the retail and leisure experience the town’s inhabitants and tourists alike are now seeking.
“As it presently stands, Riverside turns it back on the Bell Tower, the Abbey, the beautiful open space of Abbey Park and of course, the River Avon – the jewels in the crown of Evesham town centre.
“Our aim is to provide a link between these assets and the town centre to encourage pedestrian flow and make the most of these wonderful features.
Phil Merrick of Wychavon District Council said: “All parties are aware that there is a way to go but these initial concept images show a good starting point and will complement the start that has been made with the delivery of the new Waitrose store and the improvements to the existing Market Place.”
A full public consultation exercise will take place next year, but a freephone number 08000 356 480, is available for any pressing questions.
What do you think? E-mail [email protected] .
