Landsec has submitted two planning applications that would see it invest £32m in upgrading two of its prime retail assets.
At St David’s in Cardiff, Landsec will invest £17m to convert a former Debenhams shop into an outdoor area, aiming to rejuvenate this part of the shopping centre. The 102,000 sq ft square (pictured), designed by Chapman Taylor, will offer new opportunities for brands, including two restaurants with terraces and smaller kiosk-style units that open on to the square.
Additionally, it will feature a leisure area. If approved, the square is anticipated to enhance St David’s annual footfall of 30m.
In Leeds, Landsec will invest £15m in expanding its Trinity Kitchen food court on Albion Street. The new plans will introduce food trucks alongside permanent eateries. It also aims to convert the underutilised retail space into a 72,000 sq ft multi-dimensional hospitality destination, including an outdoor terrace.
Nik Porter, head of retail asset management at Landsec, said: “These submissions mark the next step in our investment in our major retail destinations. Trinity Leeds and St David’s Cardiff both continually outperform industry benchmarks for footfall and have occupancy rates of more than 94%.
“By enhancing the guest experience, we’ll increase footfall and dwell time, which in turn will bring more brands to the centres, while also strengthening the performance of brands already in occupation.”
He added: “These new spaces will create even more opportunities for both new and existing brands to benefit from the attraction of new F&B and leisure experiences, quality outdoor space and the increasing demand for leisure.”
Image © Chapman Taylor
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