Warner Estate Holdings PLC - Retail Development - Ellesmere Port, Port Arcades

Date: 19 Jul 2001

Warner Estate Holdings PLC, owners of the Port Arcades in the centre of Ellesmere Port, have received outline planning permission for a major £5 million refurbishment to the 18,580 sq m (200,000 sq ft) centre in Ellesmere Port.

Warner Estate, which has a £300 million property portfolio, intends to carry out a three-phase refurbishment programme in order to ensure the continued vitality of the centre which is anchored by T.J. Hughes, Littlewoods, Argos, Peacocks and Home Bargains.

Phase I includes the creation of a 1,858 sq m (20,000 sq ft) retail unit with ancillary space of 743 sq m (8,000 sq ft) on first floor and a first floor leisure unit of 1,486 sq m (16,000 sq ft) with dedicated ground floor access.

Phase II includes the creation of a new 1,620 sq m (17,400 sq ft) retail store with the potential for 1,620 sq m (17,400 sq ft) of first floor space.

Phase III involves the expansion of the ground floor space from 1,070 sq m (11,500 sq ft) to 1,950 sq m (21,000 sq ft).

Comments Richard Moore of Warner Estate:

"We are delighted to received planning permission. Port Arcades forms the retail focus for the town centre and continues to attract interest from large space retailers. As a result we are in advanced discussions with two potential tenants. Our plans are designed to both modernise parts of the centre and also provide units in the configuration which best suits known demand from the major retailers wishing to gain representation in the town. We now hope to start on site as soon as possible."

Letting agents for the scheme are Legat Owen. Comments principal partner Nick Legat:

"The extension and refurbishment works will further enhance the appeal of the centre to retailers and shoppers. Since June 2000 we have brought Claire's Accessories, Warren James Jewellers, QS and The Works into the Port Arcades and we are refurbishing two more units for a relocation of Forbouys and Regis (hairdressers). Two further lettings are in hand which will compliment the tenant mix for the centre which has £45 Zone A rents."

Related website: Warner Estate Holdings PLC

Where do I go now?: » View the latest news items » View the news archive » Subscribe to Weekly Construction Newsletter » Submit news