The Ridings defies high street blues
Published: 16 November, 2011
The Ridings Shopping Centre in Wakefield has reached almost 95 per cent capacity with a series of recent letting deals
New retailers include That’s Entertainment, fashion outlet Opus, Hawkin's Bazaar and Sugar Seker which join popular high street stores such as TK Maxx, which has recently undergone a complete refit. Wakefield Wildcats has also opened a new store in the Centre, reinforcing a partnership that will see The Ridings sponsor the team during the 2012 season.
Trading is set to receive a further boost with the launch of The Ridings Sunday Market, which will offer greater opportunities for local independent retailers. The Ridings Sunday Market is already fully booked and will feature a whole range of Yorkshire-based traders who will showcase their products.
Centre manager Barbara Winston said: “There is a renewed sense of confidence in Wakefield and our footfall is heading in the right direction, which is great to see after such a difficult trading period. We have established stores that are continuing to invest; returning stores such as Past Times and Calendar Club opening for the festive period and the new names that are joining the mix of retailers is great news for our shoppers.”
The Ridings Shopping Centre attracted more than 12.9 million shoppers during 2010 and remains a staple attraction in Wakefield. The three level mall comprises more than 345,000 sq ft of retail space, housing more than 80 stores and restaurants including Marks & Spencer, Boots, Primark and WH Smith. The Ridings Shopping Centre was acquired by Moorfield Real Estate Fund in 2005 and is managed by Plus Shops.
