Tesco’s appeal to revitalise empty shopping centre

Batley Shopping Centre on Alfred’s Way has been empty for 17 months after the last remaining shop Candyman closed in March last year.

The Batley Business Association has since used the precinct to display artwork, hold a Christmas fair and promote new shows being performed at Batley Town Hall.

But now Tesco said it would be willing to listen to offers from businesses to take over the empty units, which could help boost the high street.

A Tesco spokesman said: “We are keen to see the centre brought to use again and are actively marketing the units.

“If businesses are interested in the shops we would encourage them to get in touch with us.”

Batley Shopping Centre was built in the early 1980s.

Over the years the precinct has housed a Halifax Building Society, a travel agent’s, a fruit and vegetable shop and a cafe.

But the site became vacant after Dennis Fisher, owner of newsagents Candyman, retired after running his business for 33 years.

Tesco refused to comment on whether any businesses had expressed an interest in renting the units since the centre became vacant.

But the supermarket’s bosses met with BBA chairman Andrew Marsden last month to discuss the precinct’s future.

He said: “Batley Shopping Centre seems to be at the top of the agenda at the moment, which is promising.

“The meeting was positive and hopefully this can be a turning point for the area.”

Call Tesco on 01992 632222.