THE new owners of a retail complex have vowed to breathe new life into the buildings and boost its popularity.

Evolve Estates has bought the 40,000 sq ft Totton Shopping Centre from clients of CBRE Global Investments in a deal worth nearly £5m.

Evolve is planning to refurbish the 50-year-old precinct, improve the landscaping and build as many as three new units.

Company spokesman Sebastian MacDonald-Hall said: “We want to improve the tenant mix as well as offering more services to the local community and creating a local neighbourhood centre that people can be proud of.

“It’s a really good precinct but we’re a very hands-on company and like to improve our assets whenever we can.

“We’re looking to create an extra 6,000 sq ft of floor space, which would involve building one or maybe three new units.

“We are currently in discussion with local stakeholders, including the council, and look forward to regenerating the site.”

Mr MacDonald-Hall praised some of the changes that have been made in recent years, including the arrival of Costa Coffee.

“Costa is a real improvement that’s given people a nice place to sit, chat and do business,” he said.

Built more than 40 years ago, the centre links Library Road and Commercial Road.

It comprises 23 units that are let to a mixture of local retailers and national chains.

But critics have often complained about the buildings’ dated appearance and limited range of shops.

Cllr David Harrison said: “The precinct is a relic of the 1960s and not the most inspiring of buildings from an architectural point of view.

“I would very much welcome some investment from the new owners. Anything that improves the appearance of the precinct will help make it a more attractive place to visit and shop in.”

Cllr Harrison said the paving and seating should be enhanced.

He added: “The old clock hasn’t been working for so long that Totton risks getting a reputation for being a town where time stands still!”

Town clerk Derek Biggs said: “The centre is busy and vibrant but it could do with a more modern and attractive look, plus a greater variety of outlets.

“Most people love Totton but always say the range of shops is rather limited.

“I think they would welcome anything that improved the situation.”