£160 million Cannock designer outlet opening delayed until 2021
The opening of the £160 million designer outlet in Cannock has been delayed from this Autumn to early 2021, bosses have confirmed.
Roadworks around the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands are nearly finished, and construction of the development is on track to be completed this Autumn.
But the opening of the site has been moved back to early next year as a result of the impact of coronavirus on brands set to open in the outlet.
About 1,000 retail jobs are expected to be created when the site opens.
In a statement about the delayed opening, a spokesman said: "During Covid-19, our priority has been to protect the health and safety of our employees, customers and brand partners, as well as those working at our construction sites. We have now successfully re-opened all of our centres across Europe and in Vancouver, ensuring they meet the high safety standards set out by the relevant health authorities.
"We have also remained firmly committed to supporting our brand partners, as many of them have complex, multi-channel businesses which continue to be affected by the disruption. After consulting with our brands, one way we can provide further support is by moving the opening of McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands to early 2021, giving them more time to manage their existing retail operations before opening at our centre."
The £15 million roadworks which are almost complete include a new dual carriageway along Eastern Way, as well as 'improved junctions' between Lichfield Road and the M6 toll.
Welcoming the progress being made on the site, Councillor Tony Johnson, portfolio leader for economic regeneration and planning at Cannock Chase Council said: “We are delighted to hear about the great progress that has been made in what has been a very difficult period for all. Those passing the site in recent weeks will have noticed how much of it has been built and developed, not to mention the successful advancements of the highways work.
“As the council starts to plot economic recovery from the pandemic across the district, the designer outlet will play a hugely significant role and continues to be something we can all eagerly look forward to when shoppers are welcomed in.”
Work has been ongoing at the site since July 2018.When it opens the shopping village will feature around 80 brands, restaurants, cafes, and 1,400 car parking spaces.
The completed outlet will include a square with a coffee kiosk, “dancing fountain” and art, where events will be held throughout the year.
There will also be a children’s play area near the square, to back onto the nature reserve.
Mike Thomas, centre manager for McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands, added: “It’s important we continue to support all our partners, including our brands, employees and the local community, so that together we can build a brighter future.
"We are extremely passionate about delivering this landmark retail destination for the West Midlands and bringing our exceptional McArthurGlen shopping experience to the region.”
