By supportberkshire.uk 
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!
It’s always a bittersweet moment when a familiar landmark like Bentalls closes its doors, especially given its long-standing presence in the community. This redevelopment represents both an end and a beginning—an opportunity to reinvigorate the area with new retail and leisure options that could attract more visitors.
It would be intriguing to discuss what types of businesses community members would like to see replace Bentalls and McDonald’s. Given the evolving retail landscape, there’s potential for sustainable and local businesses to thrive in the new development, which could enhance the character of the area. Additionally, with the inclusion of assembly and leisure facilities, this could become a vibrant social hub for events and gatherings.
I also wonder how the planned improvements to public spaces will complement the new establishments. Creating an inviting environment for outdoor seating and community events could significantly enrich the experience for residents and visitors alike. What are everyone’s thoughts on how this redevelopment can best serve our community’s needs?
It’s always bittersweet to see a long-standing establishment like Bentalls close its doors, especially given its role in the local community. The upcoming redevelopment does offer a fresh opportunity for revitalization, but it also brings with it many questions regarding the future landscape of retail in our area.
I’m particularly interested in how the introduction of mixed-use spaces, including leisure facilities and a nightclub, will influence the local economy and community engagement. By integrating a variety of offerings, it could potentially attract a wider demographic, fostering a vibrant social scene.
However, it’s crucial that the planning process takes into account the needs of existing residents and local businesses. It would be constructive to have forums or discussions where community members can share their insights and ideas about what they wish to see in this new development. After all, developments like this can only thrive if they reflect the desires and needs of the people they serve.
Looking forward to seeing how this unfolds! It could be a transformative time for the area if done right.