Castlegate is a purpose built shopping centre, which opened in 1972, providing approximately 360,530 sq. ft. of retail accommodation on a 6.5 acre site bounded by Finkle Street, High Street, Bridge Road, Tower Street and Riverside Road. It regularly attracts 12 million visitors a year. The Castlegate Centre plays a key role in the town as the only major covered shopping centre. As part of a continuous improvement programme, a multi-million pound refurbishment programme of works has been ongoing since 1995. Following a re-branding exercise Lathe Investment Ltd, the Centre’s new owners, are now planning the next phase by redeveloping Spencer Market Hall
The 125-bedroom Swallow Hotel forms part of the Shopping Centre complex. The hotel is located to the southern end of the Shopping Centre with pedestrian access from the High Street. The town’s main car parks are situated in The Castlegate Centre providing parking facilities for approximately 820 vehicles. Public toilets, baby changing and facilities for persons with disabilities are available on site.
