This month marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Wolverhampton's Mander Centre with a new centre manager joining and owner Benson Elliot kick starting the £35 million refurbishment of the Centre, due for completion in Autumn 2017.

Type=image;ImageID=8864;ImageClass=left;ImageTitle=Commercial Retail Manager Robert Gough;TitleClass=strong;

The refurbishment is one of the most significant private sector investments in the city over the last 20 years. It will help to enhance Wolverhampton's retail offer, attract new retailers including a Debenhams store and create up to 150 new local jobs.

It is a key time to be joining the Mander team as Commercial Retail Manager Robert Gough, who brings over 20 years of retail management experience including senior store manager roles with Debenhams, explains:

"We want to retain the Mander's rich heritage whilst providing our customers with a really great modern retail experience. It's an exciting time for the people of Wolverhampton as the investment into the Centre will generate over 150 new jobs, as well as ensuring it becomes a fantastic place to shop and socialise. The first phase of the transformation starts this week and will be clearly communicated to our customers thanks to some vibrant hoardings, so they can see what is happening, when and where, whilst the rest of the Centre remains open for business."

Robert will draw on his strong track record of delivering high quality customer service to ensure that the transformation of the Mander runs smoothly for retailers and customers alike. He will additionally be engaging with local organisations and groups to create a platform for community initiatives within the centre:

"Over the last year, the team has worked hard to create lasting relationships with local stakeholders across the city. Continuing to work with organisations like the City of Wolverhampton Council, the University of Wolverhampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC will allow us to thrive and become a real hub for the community, which is a core aim of ours," says Robert.

Councillor John Reynolds, Cabinet Member for City Economy, said: "It is great to see the Mander Centre refurbishment works now underway.

"The council is happy to support Rob and his team in helping owners Benson Elliot deliver this multi million pound scheme.

"It is an exciting year ahead in terms of regeneration, with over £868 million investment in city centre projects which are either on site or in the pipeline.

"The new look Mander Centre will be a major boost to the city's retail offer and will create jobs for the people of Wolverhampton."

Details and images showing the Centre's transformation can be viewed on the Mander Centre website and in the Centre. Members of the Mander Centre team will be on hand to help individuals and answer any questions they may have. Regular news and updates will also be posted across the Mander Centre social media channels: Mander Centre Type=links;Linkid=6802;Title=website;Target=_blank;; @ManderCentre; Type=links;Linkid=6803;Title=Facebook;Target=_blank;.

  • released: Wednesday 27 January, 2016