ING Real Estate Development is pleased to announce the development of a new retail and leisure center in Le Havre, France. ING Real Estate Development, Vinci and the municipality of Le Havre have today signed an agreement to purchase 60,000 m² of land in Docks Vauban in the Le Havre harbour area, close to the Le Havre city center.
The project involves refurbishment of an existing building previously used as a storage facility for cotton, cocoa, coffee, spices and tobacco. The focus is on providing a mix of leisure facilities and retail, the aim of which is to create a strong identity for this destination. Docks Vauban will offer ample retail space and a leisure centre, which will include a swimming pool, a sports pool, a fitness centre plus an activity centre. In addition, a cinema consisting of 12 theatres covering 7,500 m², containing around 2,400 seats will be developed as well as two car parks offering parking space for some 1,000 cars.
The shopping center will be housed in the existing buildings with new buildings to be constructed for the cinema and two car parks. The original features of the 'Docks Vauban' buildings will be retained. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2007 with completion scheduled for the final quarter of 2008. Over 45% of the total area has already been let. Tenants include the main anchors Planete Saturn and Baobab but also El Rancho, Plein Ciel, H&M, Docks Laser and La Grande Récré.
Artist impression of the Docks Vauban
Paul Koch, Country Manager ING Real Estate Development France "We are delighted with the prestigious Docks Vauban development. This landmark property is synonymous with the maritime heritage of Le Havre. We are proud to be involved in developing a UNESCO world heritage site."
Source: ING Real Estate
