THE owners of a shopping centre in Bournemouth town centre have said they are hoping to make some “exciting announcements” soon.

Richmond Gardens Shopping Centre is hoping to reveal some news about a new tenant in the former Lidl store which closed in early October.

The owners also said they hope to bring more news about the former Wilko unit, which has been unoccupied since February.

A spokesperson for the shopping centre by said: “We are hoping to make some exciting announcements soon about tenants coming to the former Wilko and Lidl units because we recognise that leisure helps to bring people in and add vibrancy to towns and shopping centres.

Bournemouth Echo: Lidl, which closed on October 7Lidl, which closed on October 7 (Image: Daily Echo)

“This is not only good news for the local community but will bring additional footfall to our existing retail tenants, who are working really hard to provide high-quality goods and service to their customers.” 

The shopping centre, in Old Christchurch Road in the town centre, was dealt a huge blow when the two major retailers Lidl and Wilko shut shop. 

Read more: Shop owners react to closure of Lidl in Bournemouth centre

Read more: Lidl's former Bournemouth unit put on market for lease

Read more: Shop owners want B&M or Home Bargains to open in Bournemouth shopping centre

Footfall has been down and existing shopkeepers inside have expressed their concern for the future, with one, who wished to remain anonymous for the time being, saying they will leave soon. 

The spokesperson for the shopping centre, owned and managed by property and investment company Evolve Estates, added: “While we understand it is disappointing to lose retail tenants, it is important to look at how shopping destinations and town centres across the country are having to adapt to the different ways people are shopping. 

“Introducing more leisure schemes is a key way to revitalise shopping centres and we have, for some time, been looking at how we can help to transform Richard Gardens Shopping Centre into a predominantly leisure-led scheme.” 

Permission has recently been granted by BCP Council for a gym to open up in the former Wilko unit. 

JD Gyms submitted an application to trade from the disused site and they will have more than 250 pieces of equipment and more than 300 classes every month. 

A spokesperson for the gym said dates on moving in will be revealed shortly and that they are “excited” to be coming to Bournemouth.