Northfield Shopping Centre is set to see a major facelift in 2016, according to its new manager.
Adam Meade has stepped up to the role of manager at the centre, which welcomes more than 70,000 visitors a week to its 40-plus stores.
He previously spent 18 months as the centre’s operations manager Mr Meade said he aims to build closer links with Northfield’s community groups, local police and businesses to help bring more shoppers into the town.
READ MORE: {}
Mr Meade also promised 2016 would see the continuation of an extensive refurbishment programme at the 166,000 sq ft centre on Bristol Road South, which was built in 1974, with a second phase opening in 1982.
The latest phase of refurbishment, which will begin in 2016, will involve the upgrading of the main entrance canopies in Church Road and general cosmetic work to the exterior of the building.
Mr Meade said: “It’s a big and very important on-going investment for us and I’m very excited about it.”
As regards strengthening relationships with the local community, Mr Meade added: “I believe strong links with the local community are vital and one of my top priorities will be developing a much closer partnership with the Northfield Business Improvement District.
“I’m about to join its board of directors to help achieve this aim.
Most Read
“The BID already helps the centre in terms of letting us know about things like training courses and for our staff, and we’ve worked successfully with them on special events.
“I also plan to work more closely with other organisations in the area, including the police, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and a range of local charities.
“It’s all about weaving ourselves into the fabric of the area.”
Originally from Sutton Coldfield, Mr Meade managed a series of commercial and retail properties in Birmingham before taking over as operations manager at Northfield in 2013, as part of a 20-strong team.
Northfield Shopping centre is home to more than 40 stores, from fashion, health and beauty to services and food and drink, and has more than 650 parking spaces.