Osita Udenson and Killian Morris
It was once a shabby eyesore of concrete where pigeons rather than shoppers were more at home. Wembley Central Square was a shopping area built in the 1960s which by the early 2000s was a byword for brutal architecture and run-down surroundings. Today the old square is no more and the smart new Wembley Central is rising up in its place. The development, which had an official opening ceremony for its first phase last year, began in 2006 and has been led by the specialist regeneration company St Modwen and supported by Brent Council. The new design by Dexter Moren Architects replaces the old shopping area with a mixed-use development including shops and homes next to Wembley Central Station, just off Wembley High Road. “The area always had economic potential,” explains Killian Morris, senior manager at St Modwen. “There are
excellent transport links and it sits next to an established town centre. I see Wembley Central as an extension of the town centre and a new urban quarter. It is a lively outdoor place with a buzzing atmosphere. There is an open square and a place where people will want to come to and also spend time.” A key to the new development’s success has been attracting leading stores such as TK Maxx, Peacocks, Bonmarche, Iceland, and Betterspecs. A leading food store will also be opening shortly and smaller units will be for cafes, restaurants and smaller shops. It is also a residential area. So far 85 affordable homes in Station Grove are complete, and new apartments facing the high road are being finished. The old Ramsey House on one side of the square has been given a facelift, and is now a mixed-use development of homes, offices and businesses. The car park, which in
December costs only 50 pence an hour for parking, has also been refurbished, and security improved by comprehensive closed-circuit television. “It is tremendously uplifting to see the public square open for the local community to enjoy,” added Killian. “The square is a far more pleasant and safer environment with people around all the time. It is a meeting place for shoppers, residents and visitors.” However, the new development, which is expected to be finished in spring this year, still complements Wembley High Road. “We have many great independent retailers and chains on the high road,” says Wembley Town Centre Manager Osita Udenson. “With this development it is a sign of a new confidence back in Wembley.” For more information visit www.wembley-central.co.uk or www.wembleytown.com
JANUARY 2010
THE BRENT MAGAZINE
15