Sutton High Street is set for a revamp which aims to breathe new life into the area with a £4.4 million update to two key historic buildings.
Willmott Dixon Interiors, a construction contractor, has committed to investing in the local community as part of its delivery of the project and has previously led multi-million pound town centre refurbishment projects in Enfield and Oxford.
It is partnering with The South London Careers Hub and Construction Industry Training Board to promote career opportunities within the sector, with specific initiatives made available to students, women and care leavers.
Simon Wilson, director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “We are looking forward to supporting Sutton Council’s efforts to breathe new life into the high street.
“Our team has vast experience in transforming underused buildings for the benefit of local people and economies.
“This important refurbishment will not only deliver commercial spaces fit for the 21st century but has the potential to attract new occupiers that will encourage wider town centre regeneration too.”
Starting with 137-145 High Street which were formally occupied by Topshop and Vision Express, Willmott Dixon Interiors will protect the historic features of both four-storey buildings, while creating 20,000 sq ft of modern retail and business space.
Upper floors will become home to large, open plan floor spaces, while the basement and ground floor will be refurbished as separate commercial units.
Carolyn Dwyer, strategic director for development, growth and regeneration for the London Borough of Sutton said: “We’re excited about the progress being made to renovate this much-loved site.
“By protecting the buildings’ historic features and creating a space for new businesses, this will help to guarantee a bright future for our town centre and bring new exciting opportunities for everyone living in our borough.”
The project was tendered via Procurement Hub and is part-funded by the government’s Future High Streets Fund, through which the council secured £11.35 million to transform the town centre.
Courtney Cole, client relationship manager at Procurement Hub, said: “The London Borough of Sutton has demonstrated its commendable efforts in revitalising their local high street by refurbishing these stores, which emphasises their commitment to enhancing the vibrancy of the community, creating a dynamic high street that will attract increased footfall.
“The collaboration between Procurement Hub and Willmott Dixon Interiors has been instrumental in creating a harmonious dynamic from a procurement perspective, which will facilitate the smooth execution of the project.”
Featured image credit: Willmott Dixon Interiors
