With the announcement that shops can re-open from 15 June, Highcross has announced that it will officially re-open on that date.
The centre will open in line with the latest Government guidance and customers are encouraged to check Highcross’ website for information on specific brands’ opening times before they visit. Selected restaurant brands will continue to be available for takeaway and delivery, with further guidance expected from the Government in the coming weeks on when these venues can reopen for dine-in customers, and when leisure operators can re-open.
Ensuring the safety of consumers, retailers and colleagues remains Highcross’ number one priority. The independent inspection organisation Bureau Veritas has been appointed to analyse and approve the reopening plans so that retailers and consumers can have high levels of confidence in its approach and procedures.
A range of measures to keep everyone safe have been introduced. These include:
- Introduction of a one-way system to help customers safely navigate the centre
- Clear signage throughout the destination reminding consumers of the need to follow social distancing guidance, and to avoid shopping in large groups
- Using the centre’s communication channels including social media, digital in-mall displays and tannoy announcements to remind visitors about how to stay safe
- Enhanced cleaning processes, with a clear focus on key customer touch points
- Live monitoring of footfall to ensure there aren’t too many people in the centre at any one time
- Introduction of queuing outside the destination when required to manage capacity
- Installation of fixed hand sanitiser stations throughout the destination
- All customer-facing centre colleagues will wear protective clothing
- Customers will be encouraged to use contactless payment with retailers for transactions
While Highcross’ car parks will be available for use when the centre re-opens, customers are advised to check the destination’s website before they visit if they wish to use the destination’s services, as some may not be available.
Jo Tallack, General Manager at Highcross, said: “It has been a really challenging time for everyone, and we are hugely grateful to the key workers that have done so much over the past few months. At Highcross, we’re working really hard to make sure we can re-open on 15 June, and that we can do so safely. We ask that people be patient with us though, as the way we shop is going to be different for a while, and visits might take longer than usual. We can’t wait to re-open, and to welcome back our customers.”