New look for Westgate Arcade in Peterborough after refurbishment
Westgate Arcade in Queensgate Shopping Centre, Peterborough, has been given a sleek new look as part of a refurbishment programme.
Work on the arcade, a favourite with independent retailers, began in May this year. Queensgate bosses hope the new image will evoke elegance and sophistication and will attract more independent businesses to the centre.
The refurbishment included the installation of a new lighting scheme which utilises low energy and LED lighting, giving the arcade a softer ambience whilst also reducing its environmental impact. The terracotta ceiling and brown shop fronts have been replaced with a slate blue colour palette, new signage, tiling and fascias for a more contemporary feel.
Gerry Sondh owns The Oculist, an independent boutique optician in Westgate Arcade. He said: “The refurbishment of the arcade looks fantastic. Sometimes you see development plans and think ‘it will never actually look like that,’ but it has absolutely lived up to and surpassed expectations.
“It is lighter, brighter and much more modern – and so much more in keeping with the vibe of the Westgate retailers as trendy independent businesses. I am pleased that Queensgate is committed to attracting more independents to the centre.”
Queensgate centre director Mark Broadhead added: “I’m thrilled with how well the works have gone. The arcade looks superb – if you haven’t seen it I urge you to go and look because you will be amazed by the difference. We are already getting a lot of interest from unique independent stores looking to set up shop in Westgate.
“This is just the beginning of the changes coming to Queensgate. It is set to be an exciting few years for the centre.”
The Westgate Arcade upgrade is part of a four-phase plan by Lend Lease and Invesco, owners of Queensgate, to upgrade the shopping centre. The plans follow significant investment in the centre’s car parks in the last 12 months, together with a number of key additions to Queensgate’s line-up of leading stores and restaurants.
Leader of Peterborough City Council John Holdich said: “These works have given a huge uplift to Westgate Arcade. It looks very modern and it will be an inviting draw for new independent retailers to the city, as well as an attractive new area for the current traders, shoppers and visitors.
“This investment from Queensgate firmly aligns with our vision for a vibrant city centre that is a leading destination for shopping, entertainment and business.”
