Hammerson signs John Lewis for first phase of Eastgate Quarters
Property developer Hammerson has confirmed that it has agreed revised terms with John Lewis for a 24,000 square metre anchor store at its proposed new Eastgate Quarters shopping development in Leeds.
The new store will be located in Harewood, the first phase of Eastgate Quarters, which will open in autumn 2016. Designed by Acme, Harewood will include an additional 30 retail units for high-end and aspirational brands as well as room for up to six restaurants and additional leisure space.
Work on the detailed design for the £110 million first phase will begin this autumn, with Hammerson submitting a detailed planning application in spring 2013. Subject to planning approval, work will start in summer 2014.
David Atkins, chief executive for Hammerson said: “Leeds has an excellent reputation for high end shopping and bringing John Lewis to the city will reinforce Leeds’ position amongst both retailers and shoppers. I’m confident that the quality of the scheme and the strength of catchment means we will see encouraging demand from aspirational and luxury retailers currently absent from Leeds’ shopping scene.”
Jeremy Collins, property director, John Lewis added: “This is a significant step forward in bringing John Lewis closer to having a retail presence in Leeds. We firmly believe the development will successfully regenerate the area and lift the city to a new level in the hierarchy of UK shopping destinations.”
When fully completed Eastgate Quarters will accommodate around 99,000 square metres of new retail and leisure space.