Work to revamp shopping centre entrances to start

Work to revamp the entrances to Leicester's Highcross shopping centre is set to get under way.

Plans to overhaul all four frontages at the centre were approved in January.

High Street and Church Gate entrances will be the first to be replaced, with work due to begin on Monday and continue until 21 November.

The company behind the plans said the designs were intended to celebrate the city's "vibrant fashion and textiles legacy" during the early 19th and late 20th Century.

The plans to transform the entrances at East Gates, Bond Street, Church Gate and High Street were revealed in October, with the aim of improving the centre's visibility.

Once complete, each entrance will mirror textures and forms known throughout fashion, including a runway, a curtain reveal and twisted pleat feature, the company said.

The High Street entrance will be closed for the duration of the works and reopen on 22 November, while Church Gate will remain open.

On 5 January 2026, work will start on the East Gates and Bond Street entrances, with a target completion date of 13 April.

East Gates will be completely closed during the revamp, while Bond Street will remain open.

Shoppers are encouraged to use the entrances where work is not taking place.

Leicester was once recognised as one of the richest cities in Europe because of its booming textiles industry.

Centre director Michelle Menezes said: "Having been a part of Leicester's retail scene myself many years ago, I know first-hand just how passionate this city is about fashion and how deeply connected people feel to its heritage.

"I'm excited to see works begin, and over the next few months we aim to bring to life the vision we shared last year.

"Designs that respectfully nod to that rich history.

"As well as bringing a fresh new look to the centre, it's also our ambition that this investment improves both the look and feel of the whole city centre.

"We would like to thank our shoppers and neighboring retailers for bearing with us during this period of disruption."

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