The shops that people of Woking want to see in town centre

Shoppers have had their say on the state of the shopping centre in the town – and which shops they want to see in the town. This comes after three new shops opened in the council-owned Victoria Place shopping centre.

The luxury shopping centre boasts high ceiling’s, a sleek water feature and polished stone flooring. After opening in March 2022, the centre has unveiled new Boots, Marks and Spencer, Black Sheep Coffee, Sketchers and Soestrene Grene.

Retailers Grape Tree, Baggage World, and Savers all opened doors to the public recently. However, some SurreyLive readers offered alternative stores they want to see in the town, in opposition to the discount stores.

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One resident in a Facebook comment wrote: “It’s still not making it worth paying the parking charges. I used to go to the Peacock a lot, but in the last 10 years has gone downhill drastically.”

Others offered advice and explained what they think would entice shoppers to Woking. One told SurreyLive: “I’d like to see B&M, The Range, Home Bargains, Dunelm or Lidl. Shops with decent selection and prices, very affordable.

“As everyone else said, a larger Primark, ideally I’d like Flying Tiger to return after it closed. And yes, reasonable commercial rates for independent shops, and eco-friendly, food shops that are not the big chains, but more than anything, lower the parking charges! If I have to spend £1.80 just to put one foot in the door, it puts me off and I’m going somewhere else.”

The parking prices also seemed to be an issue amongst some readers, as shoppers could spend the same amount to park up at Kingston, Reading, Guildford or Staines. On Saturday and Sunday it costs £3 for three hours of parking at Victoria Place, and £5 for up to three hours on weekdays.

For one hour shoppers can expect to spend £1.80 on parking, and £6.50 for four hours. Rates aren’t dissimilar in Guildford, for example Castle Car Park charges £4 for three hours, however shoppers would argue there is far more to do in Guildford.

Some want to see more fashion stores, with the likes of Zara being introduced. One resounding remark made by shoppers is they wish to see Primark upgraded, especially its uninspiring and outdated inside.

“MAKE PRIMARK BIGGER!!!” One demanded, and another replied: “I agree 100% it’s probably the worst and most outdated Primark I’ve ever been in…the men’s section is so bland and small.”

Most would like to see more small businesses and talent from nearby, which would be achievable if unit rent decreased. One commenter wrote: “If you want to reanimate the ‘town square’, why not offer a council level rent for all empty small shop units to local entrepreneurs, artists, designers, chefs and creators so they can afford a start up. Would be well appreciated by all the local talent!”

Victoria Place, Woking Centre Manager, John-Paul Jackson said: “Victoria Place is committed to providing a diverse tenant mix that caters to a wide range of shoppers, and feedback from the public is very important to us. We’re pleased to have welcomed three new stores, and we’re confident they’ll be a valuable addition to the centre as it continues to grow and evolve.”

SurreyLive has contacted Woking Borough Council for comment.

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