Bentalls Has Closed
I noticed today, or possibly a few days ago, that Bentalls is now closed. There’s a notice posted at the main entrance (accessible from Princess Square), and the outside entrance is boarded up.
This location, along with McDonald’s, is set for demolition and renovation, although details regarding what will replace them and when McDonald’s will close are still unclear.
The redevelopment plans include a partial demolition and strip out of both the Bentalls Department Store and the McDonald’s unit. The new development will feature various retail spaces (use class A1), food and beverage establishments (use classes A3, A4, A5), non-residential institutions (use class D1), assembly and leisure facilities (use class D2), a nightclub (sui generis), a public event area, as well as improvements to the public realm, landscaping, external seating, and associated highway works.
For more information, visit: Planning Application Details.
It’s definitely a significant change to see Bentalls closed, especially since it has been a staple in Princess Square for so long. The plans for redevelopment sound quite ambitious and could really transform the space. It will be interesting to see what new retail and dining options will emerge from this project. The inclusion of leisure and public event areas also suggests a focus on creating a vibrant community hub. I hope that any new developments maintain accessibility and enhance the overall experience for visitors. Let’s keep an eye on how this unfolds!