Wolverhampton's Mander Centre to be transformed in revamp
A landmark shopping centre is to undergo a huge transformation, which will see a new department store move in.
Debenhams is rumoured to be lined up for a move into Wolverhampton's Mander Centre.
Three new major shop units and eight new kiosks will also be created at the centre under plans being officially unveiled tomorrow.
Major department store at heart of ambitious Wolverhampton Mander Centre revamp plans
Star comment - Wolverhampton Mander Centre revamp is good sign
Plans also include replacing 39 small units with 11 new-look ones, while the lower Central Arcade could close.
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Lifts and escalators would also be relocated and shopfronts extended to make them more visible from a distance.
Bosses say the proposed new department store would take over the three floor unit where HomeLiving currently stands, formerly home to TJ Hughes. Debenhams, which was due to come to the city as part of the failed Summer Row development, has said it was 'continuing to investigate opportunities in the city'.
But they would not confirm if it was part of the plans.
The shopping centre would remain open throughout the development, which is subject to a consultation.
Centre director Nicholas Pitt said the plans would help bring it up to modern standards.
He said: "It's very exciting for us and any reconfiguration will be for the benefit of customers going forward."
He added: "It is incredibly positive for our tenants, our customers and everyone as a whole."
It is hoped the plans will be in place by 2017 but bosses have stressed they are subject to change.
Artists' impressions will go on display in the unit outside New Look, on the ground floor of the shopping centre, tomorrow.
Developers and architects will be there to discuss the plans with shoppers between 3pm and 6pm tomorrow.
Visitors will be able to write comments in a logbook.
Mr Pitt said: "We don't want people to think we are steamrolling this through. This is part of a process and Wednesday's consultation is a part of the process."
