Retail Industry News
Retail development to boost Basingstoke image
Monday, 12, April 2010
Towns across the UK rely on retail to keep them alive and kicking, and the latest move by Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council shows just how important the industry is to local economies.The local authority has taken sole ownership of The Malls shopping complex in Basingstoke - purchasing Key Property Investments’ 65 per cent share - and it hopes to boost the image of the town by making a number of redevelopments.
Corporate Director of the council Dorcas Bunton said: “This buy-out is an opportunity for the council to take full control of the centre which will allow us to work towards improving the overall image of the area and our long-term vision for the borough whilst progressing our improvement plans for The Malls.”Visitors to Basingstoke see The Malls soon after they arrive, and the changes - which will include the construction of a new landmark gateway entrance - will help improve people’s first impressions of the town.Meanwhile, much of the 1960s-style architecture will be modernised to freshen up the retail hub.
