Shopping centre car parks: One landlord could see urban farms and kitchens set up in underused space

Potential options that could be looked at include: kitchens that can be used by dining firms for delivery only services, and urban farms, “utilising vertical hydroponic agricultural technology which are able to satisfy demand from businesses and consumers for products that are locally grown”.

Other uses for space might include storage facilities to aid last mile logistics, and e-scooter rental stations and electric vehicle charging points.

At Capital & Regional’s Wood Green centre there is a car park with space for 1500 vehicles. The landlord said discussions are also underway with regards to bringing alternate uses to parts of its Walthamstow and Ilford sites.

Lawrence Hutchings, chief executive of Capital & Regional, said: “While we fully understand the important role our centres continue to play as physical destinations, we are also acutely aware of the need to innovate and embrace the benefits of technology to ensure they fulfil their potential to play a vital role in the growing digitalisation of local economies – which has accelerated in the last year.”

Barak Zimerman, managing director – Europe for REEF said: “The need to adapt and transform retail has never been greater. “

Zimerman added: “We’re looking forward to reimagining how REEF and Capital & Regional’s parking real estate can provide innovative ways to better serve the local neighbourhood.”