Metrocentre plots £6m Green Mall revamp

Plans have been lodged to create three south-facing F&B anchor units amid a revitalisation of one of the Gateshead mall’s main entrances.

Designed by Leslie Jones Architecture, the proposals would also bring enhanced biodiversity and landscaping to the Green Mall entrance, said asset manager Sovereign Centros from CBRE.

The outward-facing restaurant venues are intended to add greater variety to the centre’s day-to-night offer, and will combine for 18,000 sq ft across the three units, adjacent to M&S.

Organic veil features, robust architectural framing, green walls, and planter pockets are intended to form a “statement entry” to the mall, in line with recent sustainability-focused investment into the Green Mall car park, which included 50 EV charging points, most of which are served by solar panel canopies.

Plans for a pedestrian/cycle link, landscaping and reconfigured parking were lodged in May, with planner Lichfields, Systra, Exterior Architecture and Cundall amid the professional team.

The news comes as Metrocentre announces its latest deal, with British womenswear brand Sosandar taking a 2,047 sq ft unit in the upper Platinum Mall.

Ben Cox, director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, said of the Green Mall project: “Redefining the entrance to Green Mall is a natural next step in Metrocentre’s evolution following major investment across other malls over the last four years.

“This project would enhance Metrocentre’s day-to-night economy with a new take on our F&B offering, and create a much-improved sense of arrival at Green Mall. We are in early discussions with some top quality operators and look forward to updating further in due course.”

Cox added that the centre continues to evolve, with non-retail additions such as the NHS Community Diagnostics Centre, taking over the former House of Fraser space, adding another angle to footfall.

Martin Healy, chairman of Metrocentre, said: “Investing in the redevelopment of the Green Mall entrance is a crucial step in our ongoing commitment to drive the revitalisation of Metrocentre.

“This £6m investment will not only elevate the visitor experience with its high-quality restaurant offerings and landscaped design, but also support long-term growth and prosperity in the region.

“By creating new, sustainable spaces at the centre, we are laying the foundation for continued success, attracting both businesses and consumers to the North East.”