Future
The centre is still undergoing large-scale redevelopment which is to include internal redevelopment and re-distribution of unit space as well as the development of new retail space both inside the centre by opening the unused second floor (which will add at least another 500,000 sq ft (46,000 m2) of retail space) and the construction of more retail parks around the centre. A walkway and several shopping units were refurbished into a large Wilkinson's store which opened in mid-August 2007. The Post Office moved into W H Smith around the same time, and a new unit was to be opened in its former location.
One retail park has plans for what would be Europe's largest supermarket although at this time no supermarket chain has yet expressed interest. It was believed Halton Borough Council wanted ASDA to move into the second floor so its current store can be redeveloped into another retail park, but now the nearby ASDA is extending its current building and has no plans to move.
In September 2009, Halton Lea was taken into receivership which is being managed by Savills. Meanwhile, it will "trade and operate as normal".
In about September 2010, the centre was put up for £27.8 million by Savills, £27.8 is a roundabout amount that is wanted. Once again everyone has been reassured that the centre will trade and operate as normal, throughout the sale.
A new Lidl store has also recently been given the go ahead for work to begin on a Lidl store, pub and retail units on Land near the centre on the site of the former Vestric House. Work is due to commence in January 2011. Its developer is Opus Land North.
Barton Willmore have submitted plans to Halton council for a new food store on east lane on behalf of owners back in 2009 Fordgate, on 14 February 2011 these plans were given the go ahead for an extension on the planning permission, the supermarket has not been signed to any company just yet, but as Tesco have just secured a new store in neighbouring widnes it is likely to be Morrisons or Sainsbury's because ASDA also own a shop in Halton Lea Town centre.
On 24 March 2011, it was announced Halton Lea Shopping Centre had been sold to F&C reit Asset management, for approximately £29.1 million.
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Famous quotes containing the word future:
“But what we strive to gratify, though we may call it a distant hope, is an immediate desire; the future estate for which men drudge up city alleys exists already in their imagination and love.”
—George Eliot [Mary Ann (or Marian)
“The future is made of the same stuff as the present.”
—Simone Weil (1909–1943)
“We live in an age when to be young and to be indifferent can be no longer synonymous. We must prepare for the coming hour. The claims of the Future are represented by suffering millions; and the Youth of a Nation are the trustees of Posterity.”
—Benjamin Disraeli (1804–1881)