Local MSP, John Mason, today (Monday) met with the management of Parkhead Forge Shopping Centre in his constituency.
In recent weeks Mr Mason has been contacted by a number of constituents who have expressed concern about the number of empty units within the Forge Shopping Centre which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Commenting after his meeting with Parkhead Forge Shopping Centre Manager, Paul Wishart, SNP MSP John Mason said:
“In response to recent conversations with constituents, I was keen to meet with the Forge management to discuss the challenges and opportunities they face going forward. There is no doubt that the emergence and popularity of out of town shopping developments like Braehead, Silverburn, Glasgow Fort, etc have all had an impact on shopper numbers over the years but the management of Parkhead Forge remain very optimistic about the future.
“I understand that the recent 25 year anniversary meant that some companies had the opportunity to consider their lease with the Forge and clearly we were disappointed to lose stores such as WH Smith, the Early Learning Centre, etc. but I gather that these decisions to relocate elsewhere were part of a wider commercial strategy for each company rather than anything that reflected on the Forge specifically.
“The Forge has been one of the key, if not main, iconic images of the East End and I am pleased that it continues to provide employment and shopping opportunities for East Enders. Longer term, I continue to argue for a rail station in Parkhead which would benefit the Forge and those visiting Celtic Park but I accept that this is still fair bit off in the current economic climate.”
