PCN starts on Metrocentre hub
The Crescent will cover 10,000 sq ft in the shopping centre’s Upper Green Mall, and will be a home for independent brands.
Designed by Collective Design and project managed by Knowles & Co, The Crescent will consist of 10 retail units ranging from 180 sq ft to 800 sq ft and a 500 sq ft centre café, and is intended to allow independent retailers a chance to sit alongside national brands.
Set to launch in Q2 of this year, leasing for the hub will be handled by LM Real Estate and Time Retail Partners.
The units offer lower barriers to entry with flexible lease terms, with target retailers being those involved in lifestyle, gifting, homeware, jewellery, bookstores, collectables, and craft-led.
Metrocentre’s year-on-year sales increased by 3% in 2025, and data from CACI highlights the strength of independent retail in driving visitor demand.
According to the latest figures, 29% of people are more likely to visit destinations with more independent shops, rising to more than half of respondents in the North East when those destinations offer retailers they like.
The Crescent is the latest project in Metrocentre’s ongoing investment programme, forming part of a wider pipeline of enhancements delivered over the past two years.
This includes major store refurbishments such as Zara, the introduction of Frasers, Sports Direct, H Beauty, the NHS Community Diagnostics Centre, and the evolution of Upper Green Mall, with the arrival of Peppa Pig: Surprise Party in coming weeks.
Noah Knapton, asset manager at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, asset manager of Metrocentre, said: “Independent retail is not a new concept, but what sets Metrocentre apart is our ability to provide the right environment and bespoke support to help brands grow, with many independents successfully starting out in The Village before scaling up and moving into larger units elsewhere within the centre.
“We’re creating a platform where more independents can thrive alongside established names, bringing fresh energy, creativity, and choice to the centre, enhancing the overall experience for our visitors.
“Ultimately, it strengthens Metrocentre’s position as a dynamic destination that evolves with customer demand while supporting emerging retail talent, both locally and nationally.”
