The developer behind plans to revitalise Slough town centre is seeking central government support with the project.

It was announced in 2017 that ADIA (Abu Dhabi Investment Agency) had plans to redevelop the Queensmere Shopping Centre before moving on to the neighbouring Observatory Shopping Centre.

Following planning permission being granted by Slough Borough Council in October 2022, the western side of the centre was closed in January 2023 - with businesses being moved to vacant units in the eastern areas.

Known as 'Slough Central' the two shopping centres are to be demolished to build over a thousand new homes, along with shops, offices, and public open space.

However, the plans would not see the shopping centre complete until 14 years down the line.

Currently, the 1970s shopping centre appears frozen in time as it falls into disrepair with evidence of leaking roofs and broken panels and fixtures.

As the next stages of the plans remain unclear Footlocker and Iceland have both moved their shops onto the High Street.

Customers of the shopping centre will notice dozens of shuttered shops, despite British Land relocating and retaining businesses with a goal of "improving vibrancy" in the centre.

The developers have had a rocky year and Slough Borough Council revealed in August that: “ADIA are reviewing how to deliver the scheme for which they have, in principle, planning permission in light of the current economic situation.

“The council is in ongoing dialogue with ADIA and is pressing them to bring the scheme forward as proposed or to set out an alternative approach.

“The redevelopment of Slough High Street is a key priority for the council and we will use all available means at our disposal to achieve this.”

British Land, acting on behalf of ADIA confirmed they were in discussions and facing "challenges".

A spokesperson for British Land previously said: "The current economic climate is creating challenges for many town centre regeneration projects across the UK.

"We continue to actively work with the local authority to review the development and will provide a further update when one is available."

Now 15 months since the partial closure of Queensmere Shopping Centre, British Land say there is still no update but the developer is "continuing to work productively with the Council".

Meanwhile, a Slough Borough Council spokesperson said: “ADIA are in constructive discussions regarding central government support for the scheme and we will update when these are concluded.”