Broadgate Central: A New Retail and Leisure Epicentre Opens in the Heart of the City

British Land has officially launched Broadgate Central, a significant new 120,000 sq ft retail, dining, and leisure destination situated in central London. This expansive development connects Liverpool Street station directly to Finsbury Avenue Square, marking the City of London’s first major retail and leisure hub in 15 years. The scheme aims to redefine the area’s offering, attracting both workers and visitors throughout the week.

Key Takeaways

  • Broadgate Central spans 120,000 sq ft across the ground and lower ground floors of 1 Broadgate and 100 Liverpool Street.
  • The development creates a direct link between Liverpool Street station and Finsbury Avenue Square.
  • It is already 90% let or under offer, featuring a mix of fashion, beauty, wellness, and dining brands.
  • The opening is expected to boost footfall and reinforce the City of London as a vibrant destination.

A Diverse Retail and Leisure Offering

Broadgate Central brings a curated selection of high-profile brands to the City. Shoppers can explore leading fashion names such as Moss, Mango, Luca Faloni, Hobbs, Whistles, Tommy Hilfiger, and Monica Vinader. The beauty and wellness sector is well-represented with brands like Boots Fragrance, Molton Brown, Space NK, Strip, and Murdock London.

New additions to the vibrant campus include Moyses Stevens, London’s oldest luxury florist; Poolhouse, an innovative social entertainment concept; Salad Project, offering fresh and customisable healthy meals; The Horsemen, an Irish-American Freehouse and Club Dining; Townhouse, a luxury nail salon; and Eton Shirts, known for its timeless style.

Complementing the retail experience is an expanded casual dining and premium food offering. This includes popular spots like Sandwich Sandwich, Sushinoya, Vagabond, NOTTO To Go, Läderach, and Maison Ladurée, alongside established venues such as Eataly and Los Mochis London City.

Redefining the City’s Landscape

Kelly Cleveland, Head of Real Estate and Investment at British Land, expressed enthusiasm for the new development: "Broadgate Central redefines the City’s retail and leisure scene, bringing together leading brands in a vibrant, accessible destination." She highlighted the strong leasing momentum and the positive impact on footfall throughout the week, attributing it to the campus model and Broadgate’s enduring appeal.

Tom Sleigh, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee, echoed this sentiment. "Major employers and brands are reinforcing their commitment to the City of London as the destination of choice," he stated, noting that developments like Broadgate Central contribute significantly to the outstanding public realm, retail, and hospitality on offer. He pointed to a 7% rise in footfall into the City this financial year as evidence of its growing appeal as a destination beyond just a business district.

The City of London Corporation’s ‘Destination City’ growth strategy aims to enhance worker and visitor footfall, and Broadgate Central is poised to play a crucial role in this by supporting a thriving hospitality scene and adding to the area’s nearly 1,000 licensed premises.

A Sustainable and Welcoming Environment

Broadgate Central is part of a broader vision for the City of London that emphasizes sustainability and wellbeing. The development aligns with the City’s net zero ambitions and focus on low-carbon developments, creating an environment that is both sustainable and conducive to how people live, work, and connect in the 21st century. With its abundance of green spaces and focus on amenities, the area is positioned as a welcoming and dynamic destination for all.

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