£7m plan to extend food court creates 30 jobs

The food court at the White Rose Shopping Centre is undergoing a £7m transformation, creating more than 30 jobs.

The redevelopment will see the arrival of Prezzo, Wok ’n’ Go, and the Handmade Burger Co who join Frankie & Benny’s, Nando’s, McDonalds, Costa Coffee and a new concept Bagel Nash in the centre’s upper level food court.

The expansion will add an extra 14,000 sq ft on to its current size, increasing to more than 21,000 sq ft, which will serve the shopping centre’s annual 12.5 million shoppers.

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Harlan Pollitt, portfolio manager for Land Securities, said: “Customer feedback indicated the need to improve our food and beverage offer and we believe the customer journey and experience will be enhanced with this expansion.

“The food court redevelopment will add momentum to the high calibre of retailers that are launching within the scheme and it will cement White Rose’s position as a fashion and leisure destina- tion.”

The work is ongoing on site, led by principal contractor Morgan Sindall and is providing employment for 30 people. Work is set to be completed by early spring 2014.

In addition to the Morgan Sindall site team, the development has provided work for six sub-contract companies based in the Leeds area, including mechanical installation specialists and installers of sprinkler systems and cladding.

Mr Pollitt added: “It’s exciting times at the White Rose.

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“The construction work signifies that the expansion has begun. In no time at all we’re going to be the proud owners of a larger food court which I know all our shoppers will enjoy and appreciate.”

The investment is in addition to Land Securities aspirations to further develop the food and leisure offer.

It recently submitted a planning application to Leeds City Council for a multi-screen cinema, four additional new catering outlets and additional retail space, including extensions to the existing Debenhams and Primark stores.

A planning decision is expected by the end of the year.