Angel Central Shopping Centre, located in Islington, London, has undergone a stunning transformation, emerging as a premier retail and leisure hub in North London. The once-familiar shopping center has been revamped, creating an exciting and inviting destination for shoppers and leisure seekers alike.
A Vision Transformed
The journey to revitalize Angel Central began in June 2018 when CBRE Global Investors, the shopping center’s owner, submitted a planning application to Islington Borough Council. This plan proposed significant changes, including a modern facelift for the public areas, a rooftop restaurant, and a new pedestrian link bridge.
While the initial proposal sparked some debate, particularly regarding the iconic Angel Wings sculpture, CBRE ultimately opted to retain the beloved art piece, ensuring its continued presence within the revitalized space.
A Multi-Phase Refurbishment
The refurbishment project was implemented in stages, with the first phase focused on transforming the basement car park into an expanded retail and leisure zone. This £11 million investment breathed new life into the space, adding modern amenities and creating a more inviting environment.
The second phase of the project, completed in March 2021, saw the dramatic elevation of the Angel Wings sculpture. Now positioned atop a newly constructed footbridge, the sculpture takes center stage within the mall’s al fresco dining area. This phase also included the construction of a new pedestrian link bridge, additional seating, and street-facing pop-out screens, further enhancing the mall’s appeal.
Modern Amenities and a Vibrant Retail Mix
Angel Central now boasts an impressive array of retail options, including H&M, GAP, Calzedonia, Monsoon, Accessorize, Oasis, Rituals, Argos, Paperchase, MUJI, Flying Tiger Copenhagen, L’Occitane, Typo, Frame, and Uniqlo.
Beyond retail, Angel Central provides a diverse selection of dining and entertainment options, including Jones & Sons restaurant and cocktail bar, Saint Espresso cafe, Pelicana fried chicken, and a Vue Cinemas complex with nine screens.
A Commitment to Wellness and Sustainability
Angel Central’s commitment to health and well-being is evident in its Fitwel 2-star rating, a testament to its dedication to creating a healthy and sustainable environment. This achievement underscores the mall’s commitment to providing a positive and enriching experience for its visitors.
A Collaborative Effort
This transformative project was a collaborative effort, bringing together a team of experts, including RED Construction, Queensberry, Haskoll Architects, TconcepT, FRA Creative, Perega Clear Structures, Goodman Metal Works, AECOM, Lambert Smith Hampton, and Henry Riley.
This collective expertise transformed Angel Central into a vibrant and modern retail destination, exceeding the expectations of shoppers and solidifying its position as a leading leisure and retail hub in North London.
