Southampton: £100m plans lodged for Bargate Shopping Centre

Bargate Shopping Centre in Southampton is to be given a new lease of life after its new owners submitted plans to redevelop the dilapidated site.

The 1980s shopping centre closed its doors in 2013 after its previous owners went into liquidation and it was placed into receivership.

Property investment firm Tellon Capital then acquired the loan for the centre in July 2015 on behalf of Bargate.

The plans, submitted to Southampton City Council, will see nearly £100 million invested in the scheme, creating 280 jobs. The centre will be demolished and the site will be turned into a new leisure quarter with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants.

The proposals, designed by architects Corstorphine & Wright, also include plans for apartments and student accommodation, creating a new neighbourhood in the heart of the city.

The proposals have evolved in response to the site’s position next to the historic town walls. The walls have been hidden for 30 years and the scheme will create walkways, kiosks and outdoor seating along their length.

James Burchell, partner of Tellon Capital, said: “The delivery of a viable mixed-use scheme in this part of the city has huge regenerative potential. We look forward to the scheme positively complimenting the existing offer within Southampton and enhance its reputation as a city to invest in."

Steven Frith, associate director at Corstorphine & Wright, said: "This is a key gateway site and the plans will create an aspirational, more balanced and better connected city centre and celebration of Southampton’s historical assets."

A decision on the application will be made by Southampton City Council in the autumn.

Credit: CoStar