Fred Perry to expand Nottingham footprint

Upmarket clothing brand Fred Perry has revealed plans to extend its Nottingham store.

The company wants to open up the basement at its Bridlesmith Gate premises to retail trade.

The move will be seen as a show of confidence in retail on Bridlesmith Gate, which has suffered since the partial closure of the intu Broadmarsh shopping centre as it undergoes an £89m redevelopment. Several units now sit empty on the street, which is known for its high-end retail brands.

Fred Perry will make alterations to the basement of 48-50 Bridlesmith Gate, which is a Grade II listed building. The ground floor will also undergo a “decorative re-fit”.

A statement on behalf of Fred Perry said: “Fred Perry have made the decision to extend retail into the basement. This will allow them to extend the product range availability. This is a necessary requirement which may help towards the regeneration of Bridlesmith Gate as a fashion retail destination which is already facing many unoccupied stores.”

The company has occupied the unit since 2005.