Vicarage field shopping centre, most known and the only present shopping centre in Barking, will be closed in a few years time in regards to reconstruction, as being confirmed in spring 2017.
For many years, Vicarage field shopping centre has been the main destination for residents within barking to purchase items, varying from essentials to objects which provide internal pleasure. However, only until recently, a year after the confirmation of redevelopment is this starting to affect the citizens within barking. Although many had decided to vacate earlier, those businesses which remain are yet in danger.
During my participation in a programme involving the idea of reforming the borough, I was able to coverse a local charity within Vicarage field shopping centre, named 'The Source' - who work to support those who are homeless, I was able to learn about the fact that they were told that "Vicarage field shopping centre would be closing in a couple of years" and so, this would mean that they would be looking for another location which would yet be valid to their purpose of aiding the helpless.
Vicarage field shopping centre, is the centre of barking, and so the most popular location within the town. This is heavily supported by the fact, it is indeed the most popular area where people use public transport to visit by most. This is important as not a few, but many people will be affected by this, as transport will be much longer for those in need of public services within the shopping centre. However, the advantage to this is the fact that although Vicarage field shopping centre is being completely being demolished, there will be much more opportunities for residents in the future. The area of reconstruction will be a few hundred metres away from Barking Train Station and will be focused on the vertical aspect of the sector rather than horizontal.
Fortunately, from further discussion with vendors within the first and second floor I was able to gain the information that, Instead of a shopping centre which now holds only a total of two to three quality stores, the land occupied by Vicarage field shopping centre will be transformed into a location supporting the accommodation of over eight thousand - five hundred families, as well as introducing a new medical centre (which is ideal, as health is a large issue within the area). In addition, for recreational purposes, a cinema and a line of restaurants will be opened. In terms of purchasing items, there will be an establishment of modernly recognised shops, which will be more useful and cheaper for those within the area.
To conclude, despite of the future changes to come, and preventions this construction will cause, Vicarage field shopping centre will be redeveloped for the purpose of becoming more useful towards the large population in Barking. This would be a strength for not just the youth, but also the previous generations and those yet to come - as it will be considerate towards the needs of the future, meaning this will be a sustainable and positive adjustment.
