21 July 2015
Woking Named Top For Council-Led Town Centre Redevelopment
Woking has been named one of nine top towns in the country for Council-led town centre redevelopment in a report by the British Council of Shopping Centres (BCSC), the membership body for the retail property industry.
‘Enabling Retail Development – the importance of local authority leadership and positive partnerships’, written by senior industry figures, makes the case for joint public and private sector collaboration to bring forward much needed town centre regeneration.
The research celebrates Woking and eight other local authorities who have pioneered town centre redevelopment in the face of significant obstacles. The clear conclusion is that councils who produce strong local plans, are prepared to accept some of the risk of development, and work proactively and positively with the private sector, secure greater levels of investment, bringing about sustainable development and civic vitality.
Cllr John Kingsbury, Leader of Woking Borough Council, said: “It is gratifying to know that the Council’s investment strategy in Woking Town Centre has been recognised by senior industry figures. Through a public-private partnership between Moyallen, Surrey County Council and Woking Borough Council, Woking has been transformed from a tired, unappealing town into a modern, attractive and vibrant centre, attracting top retail and restaurant brands that has helped Woking become a destination of choice.
“However we are not resting on our laurels as we continue to look to the future through our recently approved plans for Victoria Square, which will deliver high quality retail space, a 4 star hotel and residential accommodation. We look forward to future growth and prosperity over the coming years.”
Peter Robinson, Chief Executive of Moyallen, said: “Our relationship with both Woking and Surrey Councils has enabled the town to undertake significant transformation in a relatively short period of time and the spirit of collaboration and mutual support has been most welcome. We look forward to continuing the works to ensure further economic growth for Woking.”
John Coyne, Chief Executive of BCSC, said: “Development viability and local leadership are critical factors when retail property developers make investment decisions. As such, investors need assurance from a proactive and engaged local authority partner if they are to be willing to commit to investing time and money into complex regeneration schemes. The benefits that such proactive engagement can bring are perfectly presented in this report, and the creativity and commitment offered by the local authorities selected is evident.”
Woking’s renaissance began with the redevelopment of Jubilee Square. Internationally renowned architects, Benoy, and landscape designers, Gillespies, created a new high quality public space, with a striking glazed façade joining Wolsey Place and Peacocks Shopping Centres to create a seamless offer.
This was swiftly followed by the renovation and revival of Commercial Way into an attractive tree-lined and clutter-free pedestrian boulevard with new granite paving, street furniture and lighting, as well as Sweet Gum and Elm trees.
Attention then turned to the transformation of Peacock Walk from a neglected covered walkway into the new, state-of-the-art permanent home of Woking Market. Now located within the heart of Woking Town Centre, Woking Market provides 15 purpose-built kiosks and seven ‘pop-up’ units offering a seven-day home to independent, entrepreneurial retailers and caterers.
To read the full report, please visit www.bcsc.org.uk
