Bridges bucking national trend

Sunderland’s the Bridges shopping centre is bucking the current retail trend thanks to innovative measures helping drive footfall and boost sales, say officials.

Thecity’sshoppingcentreis enjoying an increase in visitor numbers at a time when many high streets up and down the country are rethinking their retail strategy.

Centre director Andy Bradley says shoppers are being attracted due to the Bridges’ partnership working and diverse offering.

He said: “We know that for the high street to thrive and grow we need to make the offer appealing in a range of different ways.

“The future is undoubtedly experiential, which is why we havelookedatwaystoenhance the shopping experience.”

The centre has created a number of pop-up retail outlets,includingasixmonthstint by Google Garage, a free Ping Pong Parlour, Army Rifles recruitment office and Springboard Training.

And last year, the Bridges also opened its quiet room, a dedicated area for families with children or adults with autism and additional needs who can escape from the busy centre.

Mr Bradley said: “The feedback we’ve had from families who have used the quiet room has been excellent and they have really appreciated this facility.”

The Frederick Street Gallery opened its pop-up art gallery in the Bridges, while the centre welcomed its first photographic studio with GA Photography. The centre also workswithorganisationssuch as Sunderland BID and Sunderland City Council as well as a range of city-wide initiatives, including Sunderland Food and Drink Festival and the Lights Out Halloween event.