SPATE OF LETTINGS REBUILDS CONFIDENCE IN CLARENDON SQUARE
24/04/2008
MCR Property Group (MCR) has announced three lettings at Clarendon Square shopping centre in Hyde, Tameside.
Bookmaker, BetFred has taken a new unit at Market Place on a 15-year lease, whilst at The Square, local solicitor Knowles & Co and Gamestation have let 7a and 8 respectively. In addition, a new newsagent will also be opening over the coming weeks at Market Place.
On the lettings, Charles Denby, of MCR commented: "It's no secret that the shopping centre has been hit by a number of high-profile tenants going into receivership over recent months. Our main objective is clear: to create a vibrant centre for Hyde.
"With this in mind, we are working hard and taking significant measures to attract potential occupiers to the scheme. This has included creating a design and build unit for BetFred and a local newsagent, as well as undertaking a complete office refurbishment to meet Knowles and Co.'s requirements. We're actively looking to agree deals and are confident we can continue this momentum to bring in more tenants.
"We are also encouraging tenants to upgrade their units and are actively promoting Tameside Council's 'Town Centre Commercial Improvement Area' scheme which assists with shop front improvements.
Andrew McGuiness at Tushingham Moore, joint agents for the scheme with Colliers CRE added: "We are beginning to see the tide turn at Clarendon Square. Gamestation is a great coup for Hyde and has helped to increase the retail offering. We have received strong interest from several parties for the remaining units. As more units are let, this will help increase footfall for both the centre itself, as well as the outside market."
Claire Johnson, marketing and tenant liaison manager at the centre added: "As the shopping centre is now owned locally, a far more proactive asset management policy has been adopted. As a result of MCR's hands on policy, the tenants are beginning to see a significant improvement. Everyone wants to see a fully let centre and with the announcement of these lettings, we are a large step closer to achieving this."
Pauline Roberts, store manager of existing tenant, Bon Marché concluded: "These lettings will encourage more customers into the town centre and bring more local people in to the community.
"The centre benefits from free parking with easy access to the centre and hosts a wide variety of appealing activities, including the kids club, which takes place on the third Saturday of every month and during the school holidays."