Should the Eastgate be turned into a conference centre? Tourism mogul claims shopping spot is as ‘dead as a dodo’
The Eastgate Shopping Centre should be turned into a conference and events space.
This is the view of Willie Cameron, a Highland tourism mogul who wants to see Inverness thrive.
With the recent news of the shopping centre’s food court, Loch & Larder, closing and long-term tenant Lakeland relocating to Simpsons Garden Centre, is it time to rethink what could be done with the large shopping space?
Over the years, more and more units within the 410,000 sq ft complex have become empty — most notably the large premises that Debenhams occupied until 2021.
The other large shopping centre closest to Inverness was the St Giles Centre in Elgin, which closed without much warning in January of this year.
“The Eastgate Centre is as dead as a dodo”, according to Mr Cameron, with people’s shopping habits changing to online and surrounding retail parks.
Speaking about the potential of changing the purpose of the centre, he said: “The Eastgate is a huge property in the city centre of the capital of the Highlands.
“We need to look at the master plan. With the growth of renewables and tourism in the area, we really need a large conference space.
“It could be a space where we bring world leaders. We are sitting on the cusp of greatness as the renewables centre of Europe.
“I think that shops could be left on the Marks & Spencer side of the centre, as that seems to be busy enough, but let’s move the rest out onto the high street to make the town centre thrive.
“The Eastgate is the perfect place for a conference and events space, which can be used for both public and private purposes.”
Mr Cameron said that part of the centre could also be turned into a hotel to support the growth of tourism in the area.
He added: “We need to make use of a space that is not generating what it used to.
“We’ve got to have a plan and ensure that we invest for future generations.”
The Eastgate Centre was acquired in August 2015 by real estate asset and development manager Scoop, in partnership with Harbert Fund Management.
The public has also been sharing their feelings on the current status of the shopping centre.
Shaun Ó Flaithbheartaigh said: “The centre is an absolute embarrassment. It's really sad to see.”
Rita Fenton added: “Unfortunately, when Debenhams left, a lot of footfall went with it.”
Matt Winchester had another idea. He said: “[I] think they should be closing that side of the Eastgate [where Lakeland is].
“The other side isn't too bad. The owners need to bring in a few chain restaurants etc. to bring in people.
“Unfortunately, locally run businesses might not be enough for something like Eastgate to survive. I know the Victorian Market food court is doing well. They are heading the same way as St Giles in Elgin if they don't come up with a plan.”
Pam Miller added: “Can see it closing like the shopping centre in Elgin. [We] need something for families to do, maybe a cinema.”
The Eastgate Centre was contacted for comment.
