McLaren confirmed on £73m Essex shopping mall extension

McLaren Construction has been confirmed by retail developer Intu as the main contractor on Lakeside shopping centre’s £73m extension.

Construction will start this month on the 175,000ft2 extension, which is set to open next year and will be anchored by a family entertainment centre themed on US children’s television network Nickelodeon.

It will also house one of Hollywood Bowl’s largest 10-pin bowling venues.

Rebecca Ryman, regional managing director at Intu, said: “We’re investing millions at Intu Lakeside to ensure that it can deliver one of the biggest and best shopping and leisure experiences in the country and it’s exciting to see our plans take shape with the appointment of McLaren Construction to build the first phase of the centre’s extension.

McLaren Construction managing director for distribution and mixed-use David Murphy added: “The new brands will add an extra dimension to the shopping experience, creating a destination for families, shoppers and diners with attractions and events for day and evening visitors.”

Intu also reported that work being carried out by Laing O’Rourke is continuing on the £178m 400,000ft2 extension to Watford shopping centre, which is targeting an opening of autumn next year.