With Ilford’s shopping centre undergoing a major �10million revamp, a lot of planning is needed and Renee Moran is one of the people charged with overseeing the changes.

There is an air of excitement in the Exchange Ilford, says Renee Moran.

The 20-year-old High Road centre is at the beginning of a �10million overhaul which will include a 20,000 sq ft store occupied by fashion retailer Next, new look entrances and a more “sophisticated” choice of food outlets.

Miss Moran, asset manager for Exchange Ilford owners Meyer Bergmann, helped to get the deal with Next signed.

She said: “My time is being spent making sure we deliver the work being carried out on time and on budget. We’re trying to improve the mix of outlets and we’re working with retailers in the centre.”

She added: “We’re making sure we’re delivering exactly what local people want in terms of the shops on offer in the town centre and the Exchange.”

Hoardings inside the Exchange Ilford tell shoppers about the changes, while reminding them the centre remains fully open for business.

Adverts in the Recorder and a new website will help keep residents in the picture as the works, expected to last for about another 19 weeks, continue.

Miss Moran said: “We’ve had really good feedback. People are excited about the investment coming into the centre and everyone is on board.”

She added: “We’re working together with the town centre and the Business Improvement District team so we can unite the town centre and the people who trade in Ilford to operate as one.”