ECCLES SHOPPING CENTRE TENANTS ASSURED THERE WILL BE NO CHANGES TO TENANCY AGREEMENTS IN THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE

A number of retailers based within Eccles Shopping Precinct have contacted us in confidence regarding news of Salford Councils acquisition of the site, as part of their plans to regenerate the area.

They voiced concerns that they have not heard anything directly from the new owners (Salford City Council regarding their future within the precinct, or if/how contracts will be affected.

One tenant who did not wish to be identified, said:

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"I, along with a number of other tenants, are concerned that we may not be offered new contacts for replacement units within whatever form the regeneration takes. 

"We are also worried that we may be priced out of the town centre if property rental charges are increased.

"Local businesses are already under pressure with the current state of the economy and rent increases could see the closure of many of the existing shops."

Salford City Council purchased bought the 200,000 sq ft Eccles Shopping Centre from Columbia Threadneedle for a whopping £4.15 million, as part of plans to completely redevelop Church Street and the Town Centre.

The council has responded to an email sent by us on their behalf, to reassure them that all current contracts will remain unchanged and commercial tenants will continue to be protected by their current tenancy agreements.

There will be further consultation in the coming months and tenancy holders will be fully engaged in the process as the regeneration moves to the next stage.

A council spokesman said:

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"The immediate future for traders will remain unchanged. The council has purchased the shopping centre, but it is business as usual. All contracts will remain in place and commercial tenants continue to have the protection of their current tenancy agreements.

"As covered in the press release the future of the town centre will be subject to further consultation over the coming months - commercial tenants will be fully engaged in that process so we can understand their specific needs/concerns.

"In the meantime any day-to-day matters should be directed to the centre manager, Workman's (tenants have full contact details.)