Bringing positive, transformational change to an aging retail environment, this town centre regeneration project was carefully designed with the concept of community at its heart.
The existing retail precinct in the heart of Sale town centre had become outdated, underutilised, and was badly in need of reinvention and modernisation to meet current demand. The project aimed to revitalise the existing retail environment, maximise commercial opportunities, and act as a catalyst for wider town centre improvements.
Circular economy principles were embraced, and a conscious effort was made to retrofit and reuse as much of the original building fabric as practically possible.
Existing retail units were reconfigured to create a more rational retail environment and areas of underutilised first floor retail storage space was converted into flexible workspace.
New shopfronts and signage were introduced, with the shopfront strategy designed to complement the character of the existing 1960’s building and establish a uniform design approach and refreshed brand identity.
Significant improvements were also made to the appearance and quality of the public realm. The introduction of tree planting and planting beds was used to soften the visual aesthetic of the space, and a reconfigured flexible Town Square space encourages increased dwell time. Cafes and restaurants now spill out into the public realm and the central square provides space for a variety of pop-up activities and events.
Redevelopment of Stanley Square has revitalised and transformed the town centre, creating an enhanced environment for retailers and shoppers and an improved night-time economy all contributing to making Sale a great place to work, socialise and enjoy.
Photography: Steve Longbottom