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A popular shopping centre is undergoing a major revamp with exciting new stores, upgrades, eateries and immersive experiences as it celebrates its 40th anniversary later this year.

The centre was considered Europe's largest shopping centre for a period following its full opening in 1986, 40 years ago.

Now key expansion plans are underway with a new independent retail hub and the transformation of a 10,000 sq ft space, comprising 10 new retail units and a café kiosk.

As well as attracting new chains to the centre, there will be a focus on championing independent, local, and emerging brands, offering flexible leases.

Construction began early in 2026, with units expected to be ready for occupation by the second quarter (Q2) of 2026. New stores due top open in 2026 include fashion chains like Bershka, Hollister and global jewellery brand Lovisa.

Better still the management of the centre, which attracts over 16 million visitors annually, has teased more major announcements and brand additions throughout 2026 as part of a continued effort to modernise the centre.

As one of the UK's largest shopping and leisure destinations, it features over 270 shops, numerous restaurants, and around 10,000 parking spaces, The Metrocentre in Gateshead serves as a major retail hub for the North East.

It opened in stages, with the first phase (Red Mall) opening on April 28, 1986. The official opening of the large shopping complex, founded by Sir John Hall, took place on 14 October 1986. It was once Europe's largest shopping centre.

Now the Metrocentre Partnership has proposed a £6 million investment for the redevelopment aiming to improve the overall visitor experience by redevelopment of the Green Mall entrance.

It is undergoing significant expansion and renovation, highlighted by the creation of a new independent retail hub called The Cresent located in the upper Green Mall, transforming part of the former Forum area.

The 10,000 sq ft space, will comprise 10 new retail units and a café kiosk. Designed to champion independent, local, and emerging brands, offering flexible leases similar to 'The Village' in Upper Blue Mall.

Designed to feel "village-like" feel with Victorian-inspired fascias, panelled columns, and natural tones, construction began in early 2026, with units expected to be ready for occupation by the second quarter (Q2) of 2026.

A spokesperson for Metrocentre said: "The Crescent proposal forms part of Metrocentre's long-term vision to enhance this important connection between the Blue Mall and Green Malls, introducing a modern, character-led environment designed for a new generation of independent retailers.

"For visitors, The Crescent will become a warm, welcoming space with a village-like feel - somewhere to browse and discover unique brands while enjoying a slower, more sociable space within the centre, with up to 10 newly refurbished retail units and a centrally positioned coffee hub.

"Historically, The Forum was home to specialist independent retailers; The Crescent aims to bring this charm back-giving shoppers more reasons to explore, dwell and enjoy something beyond mainstream retail."

Other 2026 Upgrades and Expansions include Peppa Pig: Surprise Party: A new immersive experience for pre-schoolers is scheduled to open in Spring 2026 in collaboration with Hasbro.

Meanwhile there are ongoing renovations in the Red Mall to improve lighting and aesthetics, following similar successful projects in Green and Blue Malls.

Management has teased more major announcements and brand additions throughout 2026 as part of a continued effort to modernize the centre.

Recent new additions to the Metrocentre complex include Danish homeware and lifestyle brand Sostrene Grene, watch firm Swatch, natural health food shop Grape Tree, and fashion store Badge. It also opened a large Maki & Ramen restaurant, the second to open in the region following on from its opening inNewcastle's Eldon Square. Other recent arrivals included Sephora, Stradivarius, and Urban Outfitters

Alongside new openings, there has been a series of upsizes, relocations and refurbishments. Highlights included Boots' refurbished 40,000 sq ft store in Green Mall, and Superdrug's relocation to a new 10,000 sq ft unit in Red Mall, boasting its new store format.

Meanwhile around the shopping centre even big plans are afoot. Gateshead Council's MetroGreen development plan includes almost 1,000 homes and a hotel and leisure facilities on brownfield land around the Metrocentre.

In a draft plan, the council said it would create new waterfront communities and offer them an "attractive lifestyle with the River Tyne as its backdrop".

MetroGreen forms part of the council's wider regeneration plan and residents have been taking part in the consultation.

The council wants to build on a 213ha (526-acre) brownfield site on the south bank of the River Tyne, extending to the A1 at Dunston and the River Derwent.

It said the development would offer an opportunity for "major, new housing and regional-scale leisure developments".

The plans also said the shopping centre would sit "at the heart" of the housing development and will provide residents with access to existing leisure and shopping facilities.

It also offers transport links through its bus and train station and existing walking and cycling routes.

The document said the Metrocentre would adapt and become more "outward-looking" as part of the scheme, although no details of how this would be achieved have been published yet.