Opening date for new St James shopping centre revealed

An opening date for the new St James shopping centre in Edinburgh has been revealed.

Following five years of construction, St James Quarter will officially open on Thursday, June 24, in what has been called a “significant moment in Edinburgh’s history”.

The first phase opening has been planned to fit in with wider plans for a safe reopening of the capital.

St James say the site has been designed to provide a “safe, convenient, and fun environment for shoppers to enjoy” as the city begins to ease out of lockdown.

The centre will have natural ventilation throughout, easily accessible public routes and connectivity from key surrounding streets, covered car parking on site and an integrated plan with the city’s events programme for upcoming celebrations.

Brands such as Zara, H&M, Kurt Geiger, Calvin Klein and Salerno Pizza will all see stores open their doors.

The centre will also see many exciting brands making their Scotland debuts with; Peloton, Bonnie & Wild, & Other Stories, Bershka and Stradivarius offering their products in Edinburgh for the first time.

In advance of the retail launch, Edinburgh’s John Lewis & Partners shop will also reopen on May 14, following a multi million-pound refurbishment.

Martin Perry, Director of Development at Edinburgh St James, said: “We are extremely excited to be opening the first phase of the Quarter to the public. After a very long and challenging year, it’s a moment many of us have been waiting for.

“This is a significant moment in Edinburgh’s history, and we can’t wait to share what lies behind the quarter with the people of Edinburgh and beyond.

“We are working closely with the Scottish Government to ensure we create a safe space for shoppers to escape and enjoy. Our team is working tirelessly to ensure the appropriate safety measures will be in place and ensure we create a destination that can be truly enjoyed for generations to come.”