The third tenant for the new Peach Place shopping complex has been revealed – it is to be the book retailer Waterstones.
In a vote of confidence not just for Wokingham’s new-look town centre but also for selling books on the high street rather than online, the store is planned to open later this year.
The chain was founded in 1982 by Tim Waterstone and has grown steadily since.
Although stationer WH Smith sells books, this is the first time that Wokingham has had a dedicated bookshop since Bookends closed. The next nearest store, Chapter One in Woodley, also closed last year leaving the borough without its own store.
Cllr Philip Mirfin, executive member for regeneration, said: “We’ve had many people telling us how much they miss having a great bookshop in the town centre and we’re really looking forward to welcoming Waterstones to Wokingham.
“Waterstones is the country’s favourite bookshop, renowned for their knowledgeable staff, wide selections and welcoming atmospheres.
“Despite being a national brand its ethos is very much to let its managers run each branch as a local bookstore reflecting the local community and delivering the best customer experience possible.”
James Daunt, managing director of Waterstones, said: “We consider ourselves very fortunate to have found in Wokingham such a large and attractive shop, and greatly look forward to turning it into a really good bookshop.”
The store will be at the Costa Coffee end of Peach Place opposite the town hall and joins Gail’s artisan bakery and frozen food specialist Cook as the first three names to be announced for the new shopping development.
Other names are expected to be announced in the next few weeks.
