The History of Bluewater

Bluewater is an out of town shopping centre located in Greenhithe just outside of Dartford. In May 1996 building of the Shopping Centre began at the site of a former chalk quarry. Tunnels were excavated under Bean Road to join the Eastern and Western Quarries allowing sand to be transported to the site. Its lakes were partially drained in preparation for construction of the basement levels and the cliffs were remodelled to permit vehicular access to the site. It is built across 20 hectares of lakes and parkland.

Bluewater opened on 16th March 1999. The layout is a triangular design with a flagship store at each corner; Marks&Spencer, John Lewis and House of Fraser. This layout is considered easier for navigation. To reflect the surrounding lakes swathes of glass are incorporated into the architecture. The ventilation system is based on the traditional oast house with fresh air brought through rotating aluminium vents on the roof. There are 13,000 free parking spaces and 90% of visitors travel by car. There are 300 stores and more than 50 bars and cafes.

Before and after construction: KentLive

bluewater.co.uk- key facts

bluewater.co.uk - about us

benoy.com- Bluewater

BBC Kent- Local History - Bluewater

KentLive - Pictures show Bluewater Shopping Centre site just before it was built in 1999

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