Moorgarth Group strikes deal to bring new restaurant to Reading’s Broad Street Mall

Moorgarth Group – the asset managers of Reading’s Broad Street Mall – have struck a deal to further enhance the centre’s food and beverage offering.

The Mexican-inspired fast food restaurant Taco Bell will take 1,800 sq ft of space at unit 207-11, which was previously occupied by Foot Locker.

Taco Bell has more than 30 restaurants across the UK, including Portsmouth, Southampton and Bournemouth, but this is its first in Reading.

Moorgarth Group’s managing director Gary Lewis said: “This is an exciting step forward in the rejuvenation of Broad Street Mall and the first phase of the regeneration of Hosier Street.

“Recently a number of key retailers have committed to the centre and plans are underway to broaden the leisure offer.

“The progress made is testament to the appeal of Broad Street Mall and demonstrates that our strategy of modernisation is attracting considerable attention.”

Inception (Reading) SARL acquired the shopping centre and adjoining office building, Fountain House, in 2015 before starting a full refurbishment in 2016.

In July, was granted detailed planning consent for a 101-bedroom Premier Inn hotel with a 150-cover Bar+Block steakhouse below at Hosier Street.

Several key retailers have also committed their long-term future to the centre in the past 12 months.

Iceland relocated from Weldale Street in the town centre last October and signed a 10-year lease on a new 9,000 sq ft store.

Meanwhile, space in part of the former Argos store has been reconfigured and will also incorporate a new boutique cinema and additional retailers.

New Look and Poundland have also just committed to their long-term future at the centre by signing new 10 year leases.

Moorgarth recently gained permission for a new food hall concept at the southern side of the centre.

Letting agents are Hicks Baker and GCW.