The Grosvenor Centre's new owners have shared their vision for the site.

Atree Management have taken over the running of Macclesfield's shopping centre.

The firm is looking to breathe new life into the venue, restoring it as the 'heart of the town'.

Jon Crouch, commercial and retail asset development manager at Atree, said: "We are all guilty of sitting at home and ordering online and this is one of the main issues for the high street.

"We need retailers and venues where you want to come and shop.

"To us, shopping centres should be the heart of the town.

"For too long they have been held by large corporations who have let them decline.

"Successive governments haven't helped - with business rates and an unfair approach to major online retailers, high street shopping has had it tough, and the market isn't getting any easier."

Over the last five years, Atree Management have expanded their retail portfolio and they now operate several shopping centres across the UK.

"We see value and purpose in making sensible investments within the sector," added Mr Crouch, who has 28 years of experience in the property industry.

"We understand that these older centres may not be as bright and shiny as the out-of-town offerings - but this is your home.

"All retailers need to be supported. We should encourage growth and get out of the house, shopping. "

Work is already underway at the Grosvenor.

Vacant units are currently being refurbished ahead of the arrival of some 'exciting' new independent businesses over the next three months.

A new centre manager will be in place by August and Atree Management say they are now exploring options to work alongside the council to regenerate the town.

Looking ahead, they may look at diversifying the centre.

Mr Crouch said: "Retail and leisure need to come together. Services and health can also play a part.

"Centres need to diversify.

"Can we combine a health centre or diagnostic centre with retail? Can we add some leisure offerings to compliment the retail offering? Yes, we can. What we need to find are those synergies."

Supporting independents will be a key focus for Atree Management.

They are actively looking for small businesses that have made a successful start online and are now looking to take the next step.

Mr Crouch adds that they could look at turning the large vacant unit between TK Maxx and The Entertainer into a maker's market or food hall.

He said: "We are really excited to make a difference in the town.

"We need the support of the community and we want to hear from any retailers/foodies/farmers marketers/makers/bakers who are considering taking space in the town."

On the possible addition of big name brands, Mr Crouch added: "Major retailers won't come to towns because of the lack of footfall - but if you don't provide people with what they want, then they won't come. It's a bit chicken and egg.

"Despite many common beliefs, landlords are not waiting for the goose with the golden egg.

"We encourage all retailers to have the conversation and whilst it's nice to get the big brands, these often come with the request for a golden handshake."

Any businesses interested in finding out more about the opportunities at the Grosvenor Shopping Centre can email Mr Crouch at [email protected].