Exciting new look in store for Peterborough's Queensgate shopping centre

Work began yesterday on the refurbishment of the centre which will see extensive changes including new lighting, doors and redesigned cladding, ceilings and internal finishes.

It will create a bright, more modern and contemporary look to the 35-year-old centre, which is owned by Invesco Real Estate

As shown in the image, seating areas to complement the design and structure of the centre will be upgraded.

And subject to approval from Peterborough City Council’s planners, the Cumbergate entrance, adjacent to Carluccio’s, will also be upgraded to create an improved welcome hall.

Feature walls incorporating the history of Peterborough and local imagery will be included in the designs and this should highlight Queensgate’s strong community links.

Sustainability has been considered throughout the works.

There will be features to help minimise the environmental impact of the scheme and improve the efficiency of the operation of the centre.

These include the introduction of LED lighting to reduce energy consumption and improve lighting levels.

In addition, sustainably sourced and low maintenance materials, including recycled aluminium and timber from FSC credited sources, will be used throughout to build on the award winning environmental initiatives already undertaken within Queensgate.

All the works will take place overnight when the centre is closed to ensure visitors and retailers are unaffected by the refurbishment.

The refurbishment, designed by multi-award winning architecture studio, Benoy, should be completed in November this year.

The aim is to secure the 90-stores plus Queensgate’s reputation as a leading regional retail destination. It attracts 16 million people each year from local and regional areas.

It will pave the way for a separate £30 million development that will see the creation of a multi-screen cinema in the centre along with a string of restaurants and stores.

Guy Thomas, head of retail asset management at Lendlease, which manages the centre, said: “We are excited to commence the refurbishment works at Queensgate.

“With the customer, sustainability and high quality design at its heart, the works will further boost Queensgate’s green credentials, whilst creating a welcoming and engaging retail offering.

“With strong demand from leading brands, the new and improved façade of the malls will reflect Queensgate’s dominance in the East of England.”

Since Invesco bought Queensgate and Lendlease took over the asset management 18 months ago, 16 new brands totaling over 55,000 sq ft of space have been added to Queensgate including most recently MAC Cosmetics and Hotel Chocolat.

Westgate Arcade has also been refurbished and significant investment has been made in improving Queensgate’s car parks.

Building consultancy Workman has been appointed as project managers for the refurbishment and Rolton Group as structural and services consultants.