The first step in the multimillion-pound regeneration of the St John’s Shopping Centre has provided a jobs boost for Perth.
Following a major refurbishment programme, which saw a new floor added to part of the building, River Island launched its flagship store in the city at the weekend, creating several posts.
In total more than £3.5 million will be invested in transforming the centre into a fashion hotspot.
As well as bringing shoppers back to the Fair City, the proposals by Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) will also generate up to 40 new jobs.
Work commenced this year on extending two of the centre’s larger units, which will create additional space on the first and second floors.
A new tenant has also been secured, with fashion retailer H&M set to launch a major store in the autumn.
River Island now boasts expanded premises, committing to a huge 10,000 square foot store, which has been described as “great news” for the centre.
Claire McDiarmid, administration and marketing officer for St John’s, said: “The store will trade over two floors and will have the latest, modern fit-out and a full range of stock, providing even more choice to customers.
“Our current retailers already include popular names such as Topshop, Primark and Monsoon and the expansion of River Island will really help strengthen our fashion offering.”
Councillor Archie MacLellan expressed his delight at the opening of the new store, saying it was “vital” to the future of Perth.
He said: “It is important that prestigious companies such as River Island continue to show a commitment to Perth and I hope they will be a leading retail unit in this area for decades to come.
“This council is working to develop the city and its environs and many more significant developments are expected in the near future as plans are expanded and funding sources identified.
“The job opportunities afforded by River Island and others are vital to the future of our city and our people and I wish the company every success in their expansion.”
The current economic climate has had a devastating impact on the city’s reputation as a top shopping destination. The High Street has lost a number of big names in the last 12 months, including HMV, Jessops, Early Learning Centre and Laura Ashley, and ambitious plans to reinvigorate the flagging retail heart have come to nothing.
Where they have failed, the owners of the shopping centre hope to succeed, bringing the “dated” building up to standard in a bid to encourage an influx of new and exciting retailers, like H&M and the renewed support from River Island.
It is hoped that such a move will, once again, see visitors flock to Perth from across the country to take advantage of the city’s setting, shops and many cafes and restaurants.
The investment in the shopping centre has been welcomed by the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce.
“It’s great to see this significant investment, which has created some much-needed larger, city centre retail units,” said chief executive, Vicki Unite.
“This should help to improve the vibrancy and footfall of the city centre.”