News

Exciting plans are to be discussed at Poole’s Executive Committee, on 10 December, as Members are asked to approve the assignment of the lease of the Dolphin Shopping Centre.

The centre is currently managed by ‘Hermes Investment Fund Managers’ on behalf of ‘Britel Fund Trustees Limited’, who have requested that the lease be assigned to ‘Grosvenor UK Properties Limited’, to be operated through the ‘Arkle Fund Limited Partnership’.

Cllr Brian Clements, Leader of the Council, said: "This is another positive development for the Borough, following on from great news about the new bridge, this will bring huge investment and opportunity to the shopping centre and the town as a whole. I am delighted that such a well-established group is keen to join us in bringing fresh life to Poole for the benefit of local residents and businesses."

Since the centre’s major refurbishment fifteen years ago, there has been little improvement or investment in the centre. Early indications are that Grosvenor want to invest in the Dolphin Centre and improve the overall quality of shopping in Poole.

Bob Williams, Executive Portfolio Holder for Environment & Regeneration, said: "We are really looking forward to working with the new owners of the centre to bring benefit to the Town Centre. Together with the new shopping at Dolphin Quays due to open early next year this is great news for both traders and shoppers. We are excited about hearing their plans and will work hard with them to ensure a positive outcome for people across Poole."

Roger Boyce, Chair of Poole Town Centre Management Board, said: "This is very exciting news for Poole and I am hopeful that this new interest will invest to improve the overall appeal of our Town. I understand that Grosvenor is extremely supportive of Town Centre Management, which is significant to the future development of a successful Town. I look forward to meeting them."

A spokesperson for the Arkle Fund, said: "As a large centre in the middle of the town, the Dolphin Centre would be a strong new asset for the Arkle Fund. It would also meet our overall retail portfolio strategy, which is to focus on dominant, city and town centre shopping centres."