If a major shopping centre revamp is in the news, one might often assume it is a large centre in the heart of a big city, or a major out-of-town complex. But a smaller complex in the historic heart of Lancaster could be set for a significant redevelopment.

What exactly happens to the 160,000 sq ft St Nicolas Arcade will depend on the plans Frasers Group has for it. As Retail Gazette reports, the centre currently hosts some notable names in retail such as Boots, HMV and Next, while four million shoppers visit the centre every year.

Whether redevelopment will include a makeover with lots of shiny new frameless shopfronts or other modern features remains to be seen, but Frasers Group chief executive Michael Murray was keen to highlight that this addition to the firm’s estate was a statement of confidence in, and “ongoing commitment” to, in-store retail.

He said: “By acquiring key retail sites, we can unlock new growth opportunities and revitalise high streets across the country, delivering unparalleled shopping experiences for customers”.

Such a statement of intent is a clear indication that the group has big plans for the St Nicholas Arcade, which means retailers and shoppers alike in and around Lancaster will await developments with interest and not a little excitement.

The use of a lot of glass can help modernise retail centres by allowing the flow of more natural light, with fewer shadows and better sightlines that enable shoppers to spot the stores they are looking for and navigate more easily.

Not all shopping centres can be changed in a grand manner. As Surrey Live reports, many residents of the village of Oxshott have expressed concerns at plans to demolish and rebuild the shopping centre there, arguing it is not in keeping with the village’s character.

While 134 letters had been written to Elmbridge Borough Council supporting plans to replace the dated Heath Building at the site, 190 have been sent in opposing the plans.

Both the size and architectural style of the planned new building have proved controversial. This may show that revamping a shopping centre with more glass is one thing, but sometimes further ambitions need to be constrained.