Drake Circus Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Drake Circus - Article Example It is managed by Donaldsons LLP which runs over 250 shopping centres throughout Europe (www.drakecircus.com/background). The original Drake Circus shopping centre was a two level centre with open malls constructed in the early 1970s. Initial proposals to redevelop it in the early 1990s failed, but the developers, P&O Estates, tried again in the early part of the 21st century. Plans were drawn up for a much larger centre and having signed up Allders as the first anchor tenant in 2001 and Marks & Spencer in early 2004, work started on demolishing the old centre and the adjoining Charles Cross car park in February 2004. The new building, designed by Chapman Taylor Partnership, has provoked a mixed reception (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drake_Circus). The scheme suffered a setback in January 2005 when Allders went into administration, but other tenants, including Zara, Boots the Chemist, Virgin Megastore and H&M continued to commit to the scheme. New anchor tenants to replace Allders were found in summer 2005 in the guise of Next and Primark. The new development was topped out in June 2005 and the scheme opened, 90% let, on 5 October 2006 (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drake_Circus). The new car park has five levels, with the first two levels larger than the upper three. It will have dedicated entry and exit ramps which will keep queue times to a minimum. There will be wider spaces, more headroom and much better levels of lighting. Interior finishes will be painted white with good direction signage for both cars and pedestrians. The car park will be well lit, with high levels of visibility for drivers and those on foot and clear signage that will comply with the 'secure by design' standard promoted by the police authority (www.drakecircus.com/background). The whole of Drake Circus shopping centre has been designed, wherever possible in line with the latest disability access regulations, will be wheel-chair friendly with ample provision of lifts, ramps and specially designated parking spaces for blue badge holders. Enhanced facilities for the ambulant disabled will also be provided (www.drakecircus.com/background). The scheme incorporates facilities for the loan of wheelchairs and powered scooters. Car Parking: Drake Circus is a "Pay on Foot" car park - so no more worrying about your time running out and having to dash back to your car! Simply take your ticket when you arrive and keep it with you while you shop. When you're ready to leave simply pay by cash or card at one of the pay stations, located on each car park levels before you return to your car. Technological impact in shopping centre sales: Advances in Information Technology are constantly