Hammerson reveals Croydon centre plans to rival Westfield
HAMMERSON yesterday unveiled its plans for the redevelopment of Croydon’s Whitgift Centre as the battle between the property developer and Australian rival Westfield escalated.
Plans to revive the 1960s shopping mall came to a halt this year after its leaseholders – Royal London Asset Management and Irish Bank Resolution – and the freehold owners – the Whitgift foundation– were split over which developer to support.
Hammerson and the leaseholders presented Croydon Council with plans last night to combine the centre with Central, Hammerson’s other nearby shopping mall, and create a colossal 1.6m square feet scheme with shops, restaurants, a hotel, five public squares, 500 residential units as well as a car park.
Westfield, presented its plans to the council earlier this month. Both will now go through public consultation and submit planning applications later this year before the council makes a final decision.