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Middleton Shopping Centre has experienced a remarkable recovery post-Covid-19, surpassed pre-pandemic footfall levels, and witnessed increased consumer confidence. This case study explores the factors contributing to this resurgence and the impact on tenant trade and community engagement.
Footfall Recovery: The annual footfall statistics indicate a notable increase in visitor numbers, with 2023 recording 3,300,052 visits compared to the pre-pandemic high of 2,479,089 in 2019. This surge can be attributed to strategic asset management, through careful curating of tenant mix, the introduction of major occupiers like JD Gym/NHS, and a significant change in the car park system in August 2023, resulting in over 5,000 additional vehicles using the car park weekly. The shift to a 5-hour free car park has been a key driver in the increased footfall, positively impacting tenant trade.
The rise in foot traffic has led to a substantial boost in Costa's turnover, exceeding a 30% increase in turnover from 2017 - 2023.
Capital Investment Projects: The shopping centre has seen a total investment of £3.25 million, directed towards crucial projects such as roof replacement, mall refurbishment, and new WC facilities. These projects have not only enhanced the overall aesthetics but also reduced the retail footprint by approximately 20%. Furthermore, new planning approved in 2023 aims to redevelop external vacant units, enhancing the facades and adding car spaces.
Community Projects: Inspire Middleton / Lighthouse Project, a community anchor organisation within the shopping centre, is pivotal in supporting various charitable initiatives. Occupying 16,910 sq. ft., it offsets a significant portion of occupancy costs.
Highlights from Inspire Middleton's Community Initiatives include:
‘We are very grateful for the support we receive from Ellandi which helps us to continue offering thousands of local people access to essential support services. Being located in the Shopping Centre is a different experience but is makes it much more convenient for people to find us, and to get the help they need.’ adds Carl Roach, Trustee and Development Manager of Inspire Middleton.
Other Community Projects: Several external projects, with footfall ranging from 49,000 to 80,000 weekly, contribute to the centre’s community engagement. Projects include Heywood Lions, Middleton Lads & Girls, Rochdale Health Alliance - Stoptober, Rochdale Council events like Christmas Light Switch on, White Ribbon Campaign, and Community Safety Day.
Ellandi’s investment and asset management strategy for Middleton Shopping Centre including innovative initiatives, and community-focused projects has not only facilitated a remarkable recovery post-Covid-19 but have also positioned it as a hub for community engagement and support. The collaborative efforts between businesses, community organisations, and local authorities showcase the meaningful impact that a shopping centre can have on both economic and social aspects of a community.
Dan Davies, Senior Asset Manager said: “We approach every project individually assessing the needs and wants of the local people, and identifying how the physical transformation benefits how people access the shopping centre, we want it to be a place where people like to visit and spend time in. The common theme across all our projects is the community which we put at the heart of everything we do, and every decision we make. We create sustainable places with purpose. And it’s fantastic to see the difference all these changes make to people’s lives."