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REVAMPED SHOPPING CENTRE OPENS IN WAKEFIELD

The popular Ridings shopping centre in Wakefield has been reopened by the city’s mayor following a redevelopment project designed by DLG Architects.

The centre, owned by Moorfield Group, has undergone a multimillion pound makeover, featuring three new entrances which use glass and natural light to enhance the shopping environment and improve interaction with the public realm. DLG design an expansive curved glass that has created a striking new entrance and cafe at Cathedral Walk. In addition the redevelopment has see the food court redesigned by DLG, complete with two new feature lifts, along with larger more modern retail units to attract new retailers to the centre.

The opening ceremony was held at the centre’s brand new café Lavazza where guests, including member of Wakefield Council and local business representatives, were entertained to the sounds of classical music from local harpist Fiona-Katie Roberts. The ribbon cutting ceremony was carried out by the Mayor of Wakefield, Cllr Jacqui Williams, who said: ‘It was a real honour to officially open the new look Ridings.

“During these difficult economic times, it is great to not only see people investing money, but investing in Wakefield to ultimately improve business and retail opportunities for citizens for years to come”

Martin Cranage, Director at DLG, said: “This multi-million pounds makeover has given the existing Ridings centre a fresh new look with some significant structural changes. We believe the new design will not only enhance the shopping experience for regular visitors, but also attract new retailers and shoppers to The Ridings.”

The Ridings was originally opened in 1983 and is located in Wakefield’s prime retail area, representing the City’s principal shopping centre. It boasts 345,000 square feet of retail space, and houses over 100 stores, onsite car parking and a range of cafes and eateries.