March 28, 2017
Shoppers will soon be able to see how the transformation of the Cambridge centre is going.
The owners of the giant retail hub say work to revamp it is “progressing at a good pace.”
They hope to unveil soon the new-look Eden Hall area, where new retail units are being created.
The Grafton’s owners Legal & General Real Assets are undertaking an £18.5 million scheme to bring in new shops, redesign the centre’s entrances, and create “bright open spaces throughout”.
Small shops in the former Eden Hall have been moved out, so the area can be remodelled
Work got under way last October on the first phase of the redevelopment, which will include a new ‘double height’ entrance at Fitzroy Street.
The floor is also being replaced, and ‘double height’ shop fronts are being fitted to some of the larger stores.
Other work includes installing a new glazed roof for the Central Mall, as well as new lighting and cladding throughout the centre.
Plans have also been drawn up to refurbish the Great Court, where events and exhibitions are staged, and there will be a new restaurant quarter.
Before Christmas a new toy shop, The Entertainer, was opened, and in June sports chain Decathlon will open two-storey premises.
Tom Williams, senior asset manager for Legal & General, said: “Works on-site are progressing at a good pace. The improvements to Eden Hall will be completed shortly, which will give visitors a first taste of The Grafton’s new improved look.
“Scaffolding has also been going up in the Mall, allowing for the new roof to be installed, and we will soon start on the brand new food quarter in the Great Court.
“The centre remains open as usual throughout the refurbishment, so shoppers can continue to enjoy all its shops, cafés and restaurants, whilst it undergoes its transformation.”
Author: Chris Elliott, Cambridge News
Link: http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/news/cambridge-news/whats-going-behind-boards-grafton-12773364