October 2021
A new-look East Mall entrance will create space for an exciting mix of new occupiers at Kent’s Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre. GCW is helping owner British Airways Pension Fund use the investment to secure lettings to a range of retail, leisure, and community tenants in the heart of Hempstead Valley.
The remodelled entrance is designed to improve the visibility and appearance of the centre’s East Mall, creating a range of new units to better meet occupier requirements. The investment was made possible by anchor tenant Sainsbury’s decision to sign a 30-year lease on their circa 70,000 sq ft superstore. Sainsbury’s undertook a complete refurbishment, incorporating the new store format, featuring a Sainsbury’s Fresh Food Market and in-store Argos.
The existing Argos unit in the East Mall will now be divided into new retail units. Existing East Mall occupier Hempstead Therapy Centre and Bakers & Baristas have agreed terms for two of the new units, whilst The Works have recently upsized.
GCW is also in discussions with the NHS to locate a GP clinic in a new first floor unit. The team is also under offer to a national gym operator to take around 20,000 sq ft of space which Sainsbury’s handed back as part of its redevelopment programme.
In addition, planning permission has been granted for a drive-thru pre-let to Burger King.
The deals not only demonstrate the ongoing appeal of Hempstead Valley, but GCW’s ability to find uses beyond retail.