Huge new shopping centre off M5 taking shape

A huge new shopping centre located just off the M5 motorway is taking shape. It will include a range of shops, including fashion brands, home goods, sports equipment and dining establishments.

The outlet, which is set to open off junction 9 near Tewkesbury this summer, is expected to create around 500 retail jobs. The latest images show how the site is starting to come together.

As reported by Gloucestershire Live, the confirmed brands that will open at the shopping centre include Wagamama, Five Guys and Under Armour. The dog-friendly site is being led by Robert Hitchins Ltd with its main contractor being Bouygues UK.

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They have hailed the way work is going so far, posting on LinkedIn: "Conveniently located at Junction 9 of the M5 motorway, this exceptional shopping destination we are delivering in collaboration with Robert Hitchins Limited, is getting ever closer to becoming a reality. Nestled amidst the scenic Cotswolds and near Tewkesbury, the outlet designed by Roberts Limbrick will offer a unique experience for both locals and tourists."

Jack Chami, Bouygues UK's Project Lead, added: "It’s great to see how far we’ve come in just over a year on site. Every element of construction is on display with internals, envelope and roof works progressing well. Our Bouygues UK team and supply chain are working extremely hard to deliver this successful project for our valued client."

Cotswolds Designer Outlet is being delivered in two phases and will create up to 500 new retail job opportunities for the area. It is hoped it will be a major boost for the local and regional economy that will act as a catalyst for growth.

On the Cotswolds Designer Outlet website, the vision for the centre is explained. A statement says: "Where global brands and local materials combine to deliver an inspiring guest experience and a highly successful retail platform. Whilst outlet shopping was introduced into the UK in the early 1990s there has been considerable development and refinement of the concept since its inception. Consumers have become more aware of outlet shopping and expectations have risen considerably from their early off-price origins.

"To build a new outlet scheme for launch in 2025 comes with great responsibility to deliver a stunning retail and leisure experience and a destination that provides compelling reasons to visit and return. Cotswolds Designer Outlet will be a place with a wider purpose and deliver on its enormous potential."