Clarion partners with Arebyte and Care4Calais to revitalise vacant commercial space
Clarion Housing Group is pleased to announce that two charitable organisations, Arebyte and Care4Calais, have signed agreements to utilise vacant commercial space at the recently acquired St Marks Shopping Centre site in Merton.
This move aligns with Clarion’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities while long-term redevelopment plans for the site are being developed.
The new contracts will see the meanwhile use of the commercial space of the Majestic Way location, allowing the organisations to utilise the site and contribute to the local community.
Arebyte, an art charity operating a digital art gallery in Canning Town and providing affordable studio space to local creatives across London, will occupy the units that were formerly Morrisons later this year following their set-up works. The agreement, which was brokered by agents AND London, will bring creative energy to the space through open days and other community engagement initiatives, contributing to the cultural vitality of the area. The organisation supports over 250 artists and makers, working in fields such as jewellery, fine art, digital media, music, fashion, and architecture.
Care4Calais, a volunteer-run refugee charity working in the UK and Northern France, are using the former Halifax unit to store clothing donations and host a variety of support sessions for refugees, including English classes and craft activities. Care4Calais had previously operated from Clarion’s Ravensbury site, and will continue its essential work providing aid to some of the most vulnerable members of society.
Brian Ham, Project Director Merton at Clarion Housing Group, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Care4Calais and Arebyte to the Majestic Way site. Their work aligns with our vision of creating vibrant and supportive communities. The meanwhile use of these spaces benefits the charities and residents by bringing vitality and purpose to the site as we move forward with our long-term plans.”
Councillor Eleanor Stringer, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Civic Pride at London Borough of Merton, said:
“New organisations including creatives arriving in Mitcham, making use of vacant business space, is very welcome news. This will bring new life and vibrancy to the area, supporting our longer-term plans to reinvigorate Mitcham."
“The town centre is the heart of this community, and we’ve been excited to put on a range of activities such as events, markets and business initiatives, realising Mitcham’s potential for everyone who lives, works and visits here.”
These leases reflect Clarion’s dedication to maximising the use of the Majestic Way site in ways that benefit the local Merton community and contribute to social value. By partnering with Arebyte and Care4Calais, Clarion is ensuring that the site remains a vibrant and active part of the community during the transitional period.