Work has begun on the final two entrances at Highcross Leicester, with Bond Street and East Gate set to receive a major new look as part of the city centre shopping destination’s wider redevelopment.
Construction got under way on 8 January, marking the start of the last phase of works on the centre’s four entrances. While the East Gate entrance will be closed for the duration of the project, Bond Street will remain open to shoppers throughout.
Picture credit: Highcross
The two entrances are expected to reopen as normal in mid-April. In the meantime, visitors are being encouraged to use the recently reopened High Street and Church Gate entrances.
Plans for the redevelopment were first revealed in late 2024, with Highcross announcing a privately funded programme to redesign all four entrances as part of an ongoing commitment to investing in the centre and its wider offering.
Drawing inspiration from Leicester’s textiles heritage and architectural legacy, each entrance features textures and forms associated with fashion. The first completed works can already be seen at the High Street entrance, where a new “runway” feature welcomes shoppers. The design includes a decorative archway, integrated seating and an illuminated pleated wall.
Alongside improving the look and feel of the centre’s exterior, the new designs aim to create clearer “urban landmarks” to signpost entrances more effectively and encourage footfall to both retailers inside Highcross and neighbouring businesses.
Michelle Menezes, Centre Director at Highcross Leicester, said the redevelopment is beginning to take shape.
“As we progress into the final stage of this redevelopment, the transformation is starting to feel real,” she said. “What were just sketches and plans over a year ago are now coming to life, helping us to mark an important milestone in creating a more welcoming space for everyone who visits, or walks by, the centre.
“High Street and Church Gate now look refreshed, inviting and ready to welcome shoppers into the centre. Now it’s the turn of our Bond Street and East Gate entrances.”
She added: “I want to take the opportunity to thank shoppers and retailers, both in the centre and nearby, for their patience while we’ve been carrying out works. While we’ve strived to minimise disruption, we know it can still be challenging. We’ll continue to work closely with all stakeholders and look forward to welcoming shoppers into the final two redesigned entrances later this year.”
