Fosse Park in Leicester, one of The Crown Estate’s regional assets, has completed its retail and leisure extension.
The expansion project, which has been underway since April 2019, will deliver 140,000-sq ft of new retail and restaurant space.
It will open to the public on 12th April, with brands opening in phases from this date, subject to the latest Government regulations.
The extension to Fosse Park also includes: 16 new electrical vehicle charging points; 172 cycle parking spaces; around 500 photovoltaic panels, which will power the new development’s external lighting with renewable energy; and 5,000sqm of planted areas, including green walls, hedgerows, trees, insect hotels and wildflower meadows.
The scheme has been delivered in partnership with local contractors Bowmer + Kirkland, and as part of the works, employment opportunities including 12 apprenticeships and 27 work placements for young people were created. Fosse Park also supports over 2,000 jobs in the area and almost £2.5million of contracts were created with local suppliers.
Hannah Milne, director of regional at The Crown Estate, said: “Over the last few years, expectations on how we spend our time have been changing. Shoppers are looking for an experience with a greater mix of brands, an attractive and sustainable environment, and a place that has community at its heart.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has further accelerated these trends, and as more people work from home, our high streets, retails parks and shopping centres have an opportunity to adapt and evolve their offering for the communities they serve.”
John Richardson, strategic director at Blaby District Council said: “We are delighted to see the opening date for the extension of Fosse Park getting closer. Both residents and shoppers have been eagerly awaiting this fantastic development, which will help to boost the local economy thanks to the creation of new jobs. We hope everyone intending to visit Fosse Park West follows the government guidelines and visits safely.”
