New footfall figures from counters installed at Barons Quay and around Northwich show visitor numbers at over 230,000 in January, which is traditionally a slow month after the Christmas spending spree.
Barons Quay and Northwich have been helped by the opening of the new ODEON cinema and the availability of 900 free car parking spaces at the heart of Barons Quay. Things are looking positive indeed with information showing the town bucking national retail trends with retailers and operators in the town reporting better than expected increases in customer numbers.
ODEON – Europe’s largest cinema chain – has revealed that its new Barons Quay cinema in Northwich is exceeding all expectations, with visitor numbers significantly higher than is normally expected so early into a new opening.
Since it opened in December the cinema has seen thousands of guests through the doors. The new cinema features the latest technology including a state-of-the-art ODEON-exclusive ISENSE screen, allowing guests to enjoy blockbusters on the cinema’s largest ultra-high-definition screen. Screenings have included Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Golden Globe award winner and Oscar nominated La La Land.
Commenting on the numbers, Andy Elvis, General Manager at ODEON Northwich said: “It’s been a cracking start for ODEON at Barons Quay with a very busy Christmas and New Year period which has exceeded all expectations. We’re obviously delighted and can see that Barons Quay is set to make a huge difference for the people of Northwich and further afield.”
Leasing agents McMullen Wilson and LSH Manchester are now looking forward to 2017. There are ongoing, positive discussions with a number of high profile retail names. However commercial confidentiality mean it will be some months before Barons Quay is able to give public confirmation of any new signings.
The retail and leisure town centre scheme covers an impressive 220,000 sq ft, part of which fronts onto the River Weaver. A multi storey car park provides more than 900 free spaces for visitors.
Cllr Brian Clarke, Cheshire West and Chester Council cabinet member for economic development and infrastructure says: “I am completely confident that this new £80 million development is going to transform Northwich. The response from local residents to all the new openings we have had so far has been phenomenal. Northwich has been waiting for a boost like this for some time and we’re delighted to support this scheme which is helping transform Northwich for the better.”
