SLOUGH’S Queensmere shopping centre is set to be partially closed in preparation for its major revamp forcing some businesses to move from their homes.

YES Slough, Sports Direct, and Divine Rescue on the western end of the mall could be placed in alternative accommodation elsewhere in Queensmere or Observatory shopping centre as the area will be boarded off after Christmas in January 2023.

The entrance from Wellington Street and Mackenzie Street will be blocked off. The eastern side of the 1970s Queensmere as well as the whole of the Observatory shopping centre will remain open.

READ MORE:Major plans to redevelop Slough's shopping centre submitted

According to British Land, which is leading on the redevelopment of Queensmere, the west side is quiet and trade has been low, resulting in significant vacancy – and the part-closure will respond to these challenges.

British Land has submitted outline plans to revamp the shopping centre into 1,600 flats, new shops, restaurants, leisure, and offices. Slough Borough Council is yet to decide on the application, but a decision is expected later this year.

If approved, demolition works of the shopping centre will take place by late 2024.

READ MORE: Slough: What will a redeveloped Queensmere shopping centre look like?

Alex Long, asset manager at British Land, said: “Our exciting proposals for the Queensmere Shopping Centre will build on our longstanding support for the local economy by creating vibrant, sustainable town centre uses for the long term.

“The part closure of the Queensmere Shopping Centre this autumn will help us to deliver this vision as quickly as possible, as well as improve the outlook of the town centre in the meantime.”

Information will be made available about space on the hoarding for community artwork.