A project designed to provide Green Street in Forest Gate, London, with a brand new community shopping mall is nearing completion.
The new development covers an area of 65,000 sq ft and once complete will include a range of retail units operated by specialist independent traders.
The new mall has been designed so that shoppers can spend time in a relaxed environment and incorporates 45,000 sq ft of leasable retail space. The mall replaces a former bus depot and will ensure that Green Street remains a true shopping destination for customers.
Work began on the Green Street project in February 2013 and is currently due to reach completion in September 2014. The mall is being built on the site of a former bus depot and is situated in the heart of Green Street, a famous destination for the Asian community of London.
BSK Construction is the main contractor on the project, whilst Wren Architecture is providing all architectural services on the scheme. Wren Architecture is a master planner, architect and interior design practice providing expert services to the construction industry.
Keen to find out a little bit more about the project Premier Construction recently caught up with Wren Architecture’s Managing Director, Philip Wren, to discover more about the new mall. Philip has worked as a leading designer and architect in the retail and leisure sector for more than 20 years and has previously held the position of Head of Retail and Leisure Design at HOK International in London between 2000 and 2006.
Philip said:
“The project is quite an unusual one for us. The units are a little bit smaller than what we would usually create but they really suit the site which is long and thin in length. This is a purpose built development with good quality retail units. The mall is on one level, which is similar in style to a traditional arcade, however each unit is two-storeys high. For me it is like we are creating a mini Westfield shopping centre in the heart of Green Street.”
In addition to the new retail units, the Green Street development will also incorporate an Asian supermarket as well as a food court. The project is being viewed as an important addition to the local area and will contribute to the ongoing regeneration of East London.
Speaking about the importance of the project, Philip added:
“It is great for us to be involved in a scheme like this and is a great one to include within our portfolio. We are currently working on another shopping centre project in Bolton and we are pleased to be involved with projects such as this one in Green Street.”
For more information about Wren Architecture or to take a look at the practice’s impressive portfolio, including the Green Street development, please visit: www.wrenarchitecture.com.
