‘Future of city centre is in your hands’ say shopping centre bosses

A COVENTRY shopping centre is urging people to shop in the city and support retailers there instead of online.

West Orchards welcomed back shoppers earlier this week, as nonessential stores were allowed to reopen from Monday.

But the centre has been “relatively quiet”, a statement on the centre’s Facebook page revealed.

Now bosses have warned people: “The future of your city centre is in your hands.”

The post from West Orchards said: “On Monday we welcomed back lots of shoppers to West Orchards. It’s still relatively quiet compared to the old normal.

“To keep everyone safe, we have introduced barriers throughout the centre to ensure the one way system is used properly.

“Our car park has social distancing measures, we have more hand sanitisers and our toilets are being cleaned even more regularly. We are doing everything we can to keep you safe. We need Coventry people to support their city centre and retailers. Please shop in your city and not online.

“The future of your city centre is in your hands.”

The shopping centre has reduced its car park capacity by 50 per cent, and introduced a strict one way system.

Following customer feedback, the centre has reopened its restroom facilities on level two, which are subject to a rigorous cleaning process.

Both Debenhams and The Perfume Shop reopened on Wednesday, June 17, but some units remain closed.

Selected eateries are offering a takeaway service.

Only one household will be able to use the lifts at any one time and customers should remain five steps apart when travelling on the escalators.

The centre will be open 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays.