We were invited to attend the Student Welcome Fairs at both of the Dewsbury campuses of Kirklees College recently. The fairs were held not only to welcome students to the new academic year, but also to enable college staff and local community groups to introduce themselves and their work to learners.
We used the fairs as an opportunity to ask students about what kinds of products, shops, hospitality spaces and other attractions and events would attract them to visit The Arcade upon reopening. Computer Generated Images of the planned appearance of The Arcade upon completion of the programme of building works attracted much attention, and learners were genuinely keen to engage with our aim to establish the UK’s first community-run shopping centre.
Predictably, food has high up on the students’ list of priorities. Pizza and burgers were understandably popular choices, but shakes, smoothies, cakes, desserts and an ice cream parlour were also mentioned often. Interestingly, fish and chips were suggested several times! A coffee shop, tearoom, sandwich shop and specialist chocolate shop were also popular ideas. In terms of retail, jewellery, cosmetics, clothing, gaming, technology and sports equipment were regular suggestions. Perhaps most interestingly, several students indicated that some kind of internet cafe, chill space or workroom would be welcomed.
The Arcade group have a strong relationship with Kirklees College and have been work placement providers for the Level 3 Art & Design students for the last two academic years. We are providing work placement opportunities for the same course this year, and are tasking students to produce marketing and ‘mood board’ images appropriate to our vision for The Arcade as a space for local, creative, independent retailers. We are also working with the wider Work Placement Team at college to pursue the idea of setting up a college pop-up space and/or retail unit in The Arcade to sell items produced by some of their students.
Watch this space for updates on further developments!