Revamp for town shopping centre trapped in 1970s
Part of Coalville’s dated Belvoir shopping centre has been knocked down as part of the first phase of a redevelopment of the area.
Where empty shops once stood, now lies heaps of rubble in an area that will later form part of major plans to revitalise the precinct.
Demolition work at the centre, drawn up by North West Leicestershire District Council and centre owner’s Gylo, began on Tuesday.
While the first phase of the plan is now well under way, the shopping centre continues to function, with some stores away from the work open as normal.
Lack of investment in Coalville’s town centre was said to have had “negative consequences for the vitality and viability” of the local economy.
Councillor Richard Blunt, leader of
North West Leicestershire District Council, previously described the centre as being “trapped in the 1970s”.
But Gylo, which acquired the shopping centre in 2019, is hoping for a bright future ahead and aiming to bring the space into the 21st century.
Its plans aim to create a more social space where people can relax and shop.
Dependent on the outcome of a bid for £9 million of government funding, the area could be welcoming an arts and cultural centre.
Called The Lyceum, it was revealed in plans earlier this year which showed a two-storey building within the precinct.
The space created by the demolition work will also allow for new and easier access to car parks and a new town square.