Plans to redevelop the Lakeside shopping centre in Essex could generate as many as 3,500 new jobs, the site’s owner has claimed.
The centre, located in West Thurrock, is set to undergo a £180m transformation aimed at attracting new tenants and improving local transport links. Capital Shopping Centres (CSC) recently revealed that the scheme is expected to include the development of a new transport hub and between 30 and 40 new shops, including flagship outlets.
“CSC’s similar projects such as MetroCentre in Gateshead and Newcastle’s Eldon Square have been very successful in stimulating their local economies,” said Lakeside’s general manager Paul Lancaster. “This development will allow us to introduce new brands and widen our offer to customers.”
Mr Lancaster described the plans as a “major statement” of CSC’s commitment to and confidence in Lakeside, adding that it could serve to entice more businesses to the Thurrock area. Last week, CSC invited members of the public to give their views on the project at an exhibition.
The announcement came after research from retail and e-commerce consultancy firm Venuescore named Westfield London as Britain’s top shopping destination.
