Latest news with #revamp
The Sun
18 hours ago
- Business
- The Sun
‘Old and ugly' shopping centre loved in the 80s set to get major £2million revamp
A DETERIORATING shopping centre which was once popular in the 80s will finally get a major revamp. A local council is expected to splurge £2million to revive the mall to its former glory. 2 The Knightswick Shopping Centre on Canvey Island was built in 1978, and has since lost its charm. Castle Point Council bought the mall in October 2019 and has now made plans to spend £2,154,600 to refurbish the place. During a cabinet meeting on June 18, Tom Gibson, People's Independent Party councillor for special projects and assets, said: 'This is, of course, a good news story, and the investment in and revitalisation of a valued and economically important commercial asset should be welcomed. "To conclude, this is a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into a highly valued commercial asset and the heart of our community.' The shopping centre boasts 28 ground-floor shop units inside and around the mall. The original plans, which were approved, called for new lighting, pilasters, ceiling treatments, and floor finishes. The council will also be replacing high-level windows, mall fixtures, fittings and furniture, as well as branding, signage and installing CCTV. The centre's three entry doors will all be completely replaced too. The planning permission for the revamp was granted in December 2023 but the works won't start until February next year. Residents can expect to see an improved mall by June 2026. Fly-through video shows what major Scots city will look like after huge £20m revamp David Blackwell, Canvey Independent leader of the council, said: 'It's been a long journey on this, so it will be good now we can see the works going. "I think really, looking at some of the photos from the architects I think the Knightswick Centre will look absolutely superb when the works are finished next year, so we all look forward to that.' Locals have long been calling for the refurbishment, saying the mall was "very rundown" and "old, ugly and boring". Some people only used it as a shortcut path to the nearest Sainbury's. It comes after a shabby shopping centre in an industrial UK town is set to receive a multi-million-pound revamp. Property developers purchased the town's central shopping centre from former owners late last year, with major plans to transform it.
BBC News
a day ago
- Business
- BBC News
Rent cuts for Wellington market traders disrupted by revamp
Traders in a town's market are being told everything possible will be done to keep them open while it is and Wrekin Council is due to spend £4m on improving the building which houses Wellington market as well as redesigning the layout, improving accessibility and updating the authority said it wanted to work with the traders and would offer cuts in their rent for any which have to move during the work.A spokesperson added they would promote the market, to remind customers it was open for business as usual while the revamp is carried out. The work is due to start this summer and the authority's spokesperson said support for traders was drawn up after meetings with business said they would guarantee a rent-free period for the duration that any trader is temporarily moved during the would also be given a rental cut of 50% up to the point they are moved and an extra rental concession of 50% for the first six months of trading in their permanent location, they Ollie Vickers said: "It's essential that we carry out this investment works now, otherwise the market's future is in serious jeopardy."But he also promised to "work closely with traders during the refurbishment". Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Meet the best friends on a mission to bring beloved pub back to former glory
AFTER standing vacant for just over three years, two friends took a leap of faith and purchased a once popular pub on the border of Brierley Hill and Amblecote, determined to give it a new lease of life. The New Wellington on Brettell Lane was officially closed in 2022, however, will reopen this summer after new managers at the pub, Rio Cheadle and Lisa Curtis, have poured blood, sweat and tears into revamping the boozer. This is the pair's first time trying their hand had managing a pub, determined to create a 'home from home' family-friendly pub. Ms Cheadle said: 'We both used to come here a lot when it was open, and we've been saying how much we would like to have our own pub for ages. 'We really want it to be a home-from-home, country-pub vibe, but in the middle of Brierley Hill!' The pub is currently undergoing an extensive refurb, with a brand-new children's play area being built outside. With the New Wellington having perhaps been best-known for its mouthwatering carvery, Ms Cheadle and Ms Cutris said they have their eyes set on bringing it back, but making it 'even better' The pub's new head chef shared how an all-new menu of dishes derived from locally-sourced produce and suppliers has been curated, including seasonal dishes, a fun kids menu and a steak menu. There will also be vegan and vegetarian options and specials on offer. The team also hope to enlist the expertise of CAMRA, making sure their ale offerings are among the best. Between them, Ms Cheadle, who also owns her own aesthetics salon, and Ms Curtis, whose background is in bookkeeping, have six young children, therefore, ensuring the pub was family-friendly was a must. Ms Cheadle said: 'We want to be affordable, different, and offer the best carvery in the West Midlands. 'We're so excited to finally get the doors open.' Ms Curtis added: 'Working together has been effortless – we really balance each other out and have the same goals of success for The New Welly. 'We've got a very strong team around us and can't wait to get started.' The duo wanted to share their heartfelt thanks to the lease owners and huge respect to the property owner, Stanley Owen, as well as local businesses, Midlands Sheds and Summerhouses and PWC Landscaping, who have helped them in their renovation project. The pair confirmed the doors will be back open and the beer flowing from July 11, right in time for summer.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
New health centre near Birmingham as historic swimming baths transformed
An iconic swimming baths is set to make a splash as a revamped health centre. The Grade II listed Smethwick Baths, which shut its doors two years ago, has been snapped up by a local healthcare firm, aiming to breathe new life into the historic edifice. Sandwell Council offloaded the building to Norvic Family Practice this April, following through on a decision made last year by the Labour-led cabinet. Read more: Crimes that happen where you live The Smethwick-based GPs, who already manage Victoria Health Centre on Suffrage Street and Norman Road Surgery in the town, believe the move will enable them to ramp up their appointment offerings. Dr Amandeep Suthi of Norvic Family Practice shared: "We are excited to announce these proposals for the historic Thimblemill Baths building, which we know is much-loved by the local community. "We are working with architects to design a sympathetic conversion of this grade II listed building to restore it for public use, and we will provide more details as soon as we can. "We have run out of clinical rooms at our current site in Norman Road so we can't offer any more appointments than we already do. By moving to new premises, we will be able to offer more appointments in the future." However, the transformation of the building into a state-of-the-art health centre is still pending planning approval from the council. The art deco baths, which had been a community staple for over nine decades until its closure in July last year, have suffered extensive vandalism since, with smashed doors, toilets, and windows, costing taxpayers an additional £7,500 per month for increased security measures. Sandwell Council has stated that the responsibility for maintaining the security of the former baths now lies with the new owner. The Thimblemill Road baths were closed following the public unveiling of the multi-million-pound Sandwell Aquatics Centre, located just a mile away on Londonderry Lane. Despite initially agreeing to collaborate with music charity, the People's Orchestra, on plans to transform the grade II listed building into a new music venue and community hub, the council later expressed reluctance due to concerns over potential risks and high costs. The council currently holds more than 130 'assets' in its property portfolio, valued at approximately £11m, which are deemed surplus to requirements. It is now planning to sell these off in order to achieve a 'savings target' of over £4m within the next two years. Earlier this year, Cllr Peter Hughes, the council's cabinet member for regeneration and infrastructure, confessed that 'no planning' had been undertaken regarding the future of the baths, despite having agreed to its closure seven years prior. The council also disclosed its intention to sell the building as part of an effort to save £840,000. In 2018, Sandwell Council's cabinet officially decided that Smethwick Baths would close after the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, with the newly constructed Sandwell Aquatics Centre set to open to the public in 2023. Sandwell Council revealed it had amassed over 130 'assets' worth roughly £11m that exceeded its needs, and now the Black Country authority is planning to offload these properties in order to meet a 'savings target' of above £4m within two years. Cllr Hughes commented: "The council has worked hard to secure a positive future for this landmark building in Smethwick. "I am delighted the sale is now complete – and I look forward to seeing the detailed design proposals for a conversion that promises to both preserve the building and benefit people's health and wellbeing for many years to come."
Daily Mail
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
The under-the-radar high street brands that have upped their game this summer – and everything our fashion editor is buying
On the hunt for new brands? Instead I urge you to rediscover the handful of style stalwarts that have had a glow up. M&S is leading the charge on reinvention across the high street. In 2019 its clothing sales declined 5.5 per cent and there were plans to oust its frumpy garment department altogether. After targeting younger customers and modernising its aesthetic, six years on it stocks sell-out items and collaborates with the likes of Sienna Miller. Last year clothing sales jumped 4.7 per cent producing an operating profit of £242.2m. These are the other revamped brands to have on your radar now. FRENCH CONNECTION A few years ago I would have tagged this brand as an overpriced occasionwear outlet. Now I'd happily add most of its 'new in' section to my basket. Its head of design Helen Gallagher says, 'We've worked hard to reintroduce that bold, confident edge French Connection was once known for, with a new emphasis on pieces that feel wearable yet directional, and made for busy lives.' The result? A summer collection featuring clever details that make the clothes look and feel luxe. Ennis Eco Satin Column Shape Dress £140 Shop A standout piece thanks to its balloon sleeves and seashell embroidery. £69 Shop Wrap-around sarong skirts are a great alternative to your trusty midi slip. Skirt £75 Shop These are begging to be worn in the South of France. Sunglasses £45 Shop RUSSELL & BROMLEY This heritage accessories brand has steered away from reproducing the same old silhouettes and moved towards sleek pumps, kitten heels, mules and drool-worthy arm candy. For the first time in its 145-year history, design has moved in-house, with It-boy Daniel Beardsworth-Shaw as creative director. 'I'm aiming to tell the story of this iconic brand through innovation and an updated direction,' he says. His vision comes into full effect from autumn this year, but the latest styles on offer already show his influence – the suede bag collection is unmatched. I'm loving the rich brown shade and buckle strap. Strappy Heeled Sandal £245 Shop Bag £295 Shop These 70s-inspired platform mules will work with wide-leg jeans or linen trousers. Sandals £195 Shop Chocolate suede is everywhere: nail the trend with this investment piece. Bag MINT VELVET Two years ago you'd be pushed to find a gem on this brand's rails, but now Mint Velvet is packed with styles that end up with wait lists. Its aesthetic has evolved from mumsy to must-have, thanks to creative director Lucy Bevan, who says, 'We design for women who want to look put-together without trying too hard. Our focus is on creating effortless silhouettes with just the right amount of polish.' Which is why its holiday edit is one to watch. This ruffled one-piece is super flattering. Swimsuit £69 Shop Sea-themed charms will amp up the simplest of summer looks. £32 Shop RADLEY Founded in 1998 by Australian architect-turned-designer Lowell Harder, this London-based brand made its name selling mid-price bags featuring its Scottie-dog mascot. But to quote Florence Welch, 'the dog days are over'. Thanks to new design director Fernando Soriano Iglesias, Radley's focus is now on stealth wealth-looking totes and the sort of bags you'll find trending on Instagram. His experience at Calvin Klein, Carolina Herrera and Loewe is already evident in in this season's polished offerings. Croc bag £109 Shop This faux-croc number will fit your laptop, notebook, sunglasses and kitchen sink. Bag These gladiators are giving Gwyneth Paltrow vibes. I have my eye on this squishy grab bag. Bag £239, now £143 Shop ARRANGE AT ASOS My mum would say Asos is far too young for her – she'd also question the quality. But the digital outlet's premium Arrange line is a far cry from its usual fast-fashion offerings. Rather than trend-led, the range is timeless, mature, features designs in 100 per cent cotton, leather and silk – and has a curve section. It does especially fabulous, yet modest, occasionwear that looks far more expensive than it is. Maxi dress £130 Shop Chartreuse is becoming the next shade of yellow to covet now. Dress £130 Shop Arrange also does a fine line in party tops: see this asymmetric striped find. Top £65 Shop For the brave, these leather city shorts will look très chic with a white linen shirt and kitten heels. GAP You may associate this Californian export with denim and white T-shirts, but its premium Gap Studio line – designed by creative director Zac Posen – went viral when Anne Hathaway wore a £120 white poplin shirtdress from the range last summer. The brand has gone from strength to strength since, with White Lotus star Parker Posey (below) fronting its latest campaign. That hit shirtdress in navy polka dots. Dress £120 Shop This asymmetric short trench is a great twist on a classic. Jacket £125 Shop Gap's jeans are still fabulous and well priced: these horseshoe ones have sold out twice.
