Highcross Leicester: The Transformation of The Shires
The retail landscape of Leicester underwent a massive shift with the evolution of The Shires into Highcross Leicester. This ambitious project was not merely a rebranding but a comprehensive expansion and refurbishment that redefined the city's commercial heart, creating the largest shopping centre in the East Midlands.
The Expansion of Shires West
During its planning and early construction phases, the project was known as Shires West. This extension effectively doubled the available retail space, bridging the gap between the original Shires complex and the inner ring-road. The development introduced a diverse array of high-end tenants, including an Apple Store and designer fashion brands such as Zara, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, and G-star.
Beyond retail, the expansion integrated essential urban infrastructure and leisure facilities. The site now features two new public squares, residential apartments, and a bus interchange. To address parking needs, a new 2,000-space car park was constructed on the opposite side of the ring road, connected to the main centre via a glass footbridge. This new facility replaced an older Shires car park that was demolished to facilitate the extension.
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Entertainment and Dining
The extension brought significant leisure attractions to the city centre, most notably the Cinema de Lux, which stands as the only multiplex cinema in the heart of the city. To complement the shopping experience, thirteen new restaurants and cafés were integrated into the centre's layout.
Architectural Innovation and Heritage
The project marked the UK debut of the architecture firm Foreign Office Architects, who were responsible for the design of the John Lewis department store and the Showcase Cinema de Lux. Their approach combined modern materials with local historical tributes.
- The Cinema: Clad in a distinctive, slightly buckled stainless steel.
- John Lewis: Features two layers of glass utilizing a swirling fabric design sourced from the John Lewis archives. This design allows natural light to enter and provides views out while maintaining interior privacy.
The choice of a fabric pattern is a deliberate architectural nod to Leicester's historical legacy as a major textile-producing city.
Launch and Economic Impact
The scale of the project was reflected in its cost and public reception. The extension cost £350 million to construct, representing the largest regeneration project in the city for many years. Following an open day on June 1, 2008, which drew over a thousand attendees, the centre officially opened to the public on September 4, 2008.
The opening was a massive success, attracting over 125,000 visitors on the first day and exceeding one million visitors within the first two weeks of operation.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Construction Cost | £350 million |
| Opening Date | September 4, 2008 |
| Regional Status | Largest shopping centre in the East Midlands |
| Key Anchor Tenants | John Lewis, Showcase Cinema de Lux, Apple Store |
| Architects | Foreign Office Architects |
| Parking Capacity | 2,000 spaces (new car park) |
Key Facts
- Regional Leader: Highcross Leicester is the largest shopping centre in the East Midlands.
- Major Investment: The regeneration project cost £350 million.
- Architectural Debut: It served as the first UK project for Foreign Office Architects.
- High Traffic: The centre saw over one million visitors in its first 14 days.
- Urban Integration: Includes a glass footbridge connecting the centre to a 2,000-space car park.
Naming Controversies
The transition from The Shires to its current name was fraught with public and legal disputes. On July 14, 2006, the developers announced the name Highcross Quarter, referencing a historical high cross that once stood in Highcross Street. This was met with mixed reactions, particularly regarding the use of the word "quarter."
By July 19, 2007, the principal owners, Hammerson, changed the name to Highcross Leicester. While Hammerson claimed the change was to strengthen the city's profile and customer identity, reports from the Leicester Mercury suggested a different cause: a year-long dispute with a local coven of witches. The group noted that "High Cross Quarter" coincided with a major sabbat (a religious festival) in the Wiccan calendar and had registered five related internet domain names.
The conflict escalated to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva. Hammerson sought a ruling on the ownership of the highcrossquarter.com domain name, but on August 30, 2007, WIPO ruled against the developers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original name of the shopping centre?
The centre was originally known as The Shires before being extended and renamed Highcross Leicester.
Who designed the John Lewis and Cinema sections?
These sections were designed by Foreign Office Architects, marking their first project in the United Kingdom.
Why does the John Lewis building have a fabric design?
The swirling fabric pattern on the glass is a tribute to Leicester's history as a textile-producing city.
What caused the dispute over the name "Highcross Quarter"?
A local Wiccan coven pointed out that the name referred to a high point or major sabbat in their calendar, leading to a dispute over internet domain names.
How many people visited the centre during its opening fortnight?
Highcross Leicester attracted over one million visitors in its first two weeks of operation.
What is the significance of the glass footbridge?
The footbridge links the shopping centre to a new 2,000-space car park located on the opposite side of the inner ring-road.