About Brent Cross
The opening of the Brent Cross shopping centre in 1976 made the headlines-at the time, it was the first standalone outlet of its kind. Over 40 years later, its back on the map thanks to considerable infrastructure and the planning new Thameslink route due to open in 2022. It will offer 15-minute journeys into central London.
A short history
The area began to be developed in the 1880s when the Midland Railway Company moved its locomotive works from Kentish Town to the new Brent Sidings and built an estate of worker cottages. Brent Cross is about to undergo a £4.5 billion regeneration which will take in 2 million sq ft of retail space, a cinema complex, and new restaurants, effectively doubling its size. A new high street will lead to the centre and continue across the North Circular via a "Living Bridge", a new cycle and pedestrian route.
Green spaces and going out
Clarefield Park is Brent Cross's green lung. It has playgrounds for different age groups plus a multi-sports court. As the re-development of the shopping centre takes place, there are plans for a new riverside park and a "living bridge" connecting to the southern section of Brent Cross. The new centre will be home to a luxury cinema complex and 50 new restaurants.
Transport
Hendon Central and Brent Cross Underground stations are on the Edgware branch of the Northern Line (Zone 4). Journeys take approximately 20 minutes to central London.
Did you know?
Brent Cross opened on March 2, 1976 after 19 years of planning. It revolutionised the face of London retail which had previously focussed on the West End. It was the first American-style shopping mall in the UK and became the blueprint for further centres across Europe.
