The Victoria Shopping Centre is a shining example of how unused retail space can be used to engage and benefit the local community.

From opening a Ping Pong Parlour to hosting a Christmas charity wrapping service, the Victoria Shopping Centre has collaborated with Harrogate’s Business Improvement District (BID) to develop projects like these, not only to increase footfall to the town, but to also increase physical activity levels and reduce isolation.

BID’s board member and Table Tennis England member, Bokmun Chan, was the driving force behind the innovative project to open a Ping Pong Parlour. He said:

“A dream of mine to have a Ping Pong Parlour in Harrogate town centre is becoming a reality and it’s something I’ve been wanting to achieve for a number of years.

“Table tennis is a great sport and anyone can play it, no matter how young or how old.’

Although the Parlour will be temporarily closed over the Christmas period in order to host a charity wrapping service, it is expected to re-open again in the New Year where it’s hoped it’ll continue to attract more people to the town and bring the community together.

You can find your nearest Ping Pong Parlour here. Why not visit one during your Christmas shopping trip?!

To find out more about our Ping Pong Parlour project please contact our Programmes Activator Jack Grundy, [email protected].