MP backs ‘exciting’ plans for shoppers

RUNCORN Shopping City is looking to the future as it emerges from the pandemic, the area’s MP has said.

Mike Amesbury, Labour MP for Weaver Vale, met with centre manager Dave Pearman after recently relocating his constituency office to the mall, which changed hands last year after financial difficulties.

Mr Amesbury said exciting plans are afoot at the shopping centre, which marks its 50th anniversary this year.

He said: “I was delighted to learn Shopping City is bouncing forward as the impact of the pandemic eases.

“Dave has some exciting plans to enhance the retail and leisure offer at the centre following its recent takeover by long term property investors and the appointment of new letting agents.

“New tenants are signing up – not just in retail – as the offer is being diversified with, for example, my new office, Citizens Advice opening soon along with some health services.”

He added: “Next door you’ve got a £62m redevelopment of

East Lane House that will see the site cleared to make way for housing, a hotel and care home, injecting new life and bringing new customers to Shopping City.”