Live refurbishment begins at OMNi Centre, Edinburgh

Major city-centre upgrade now underway

Triple B, which acquired the OMNi Centre in 2023, has launched the next phase of improvements. The group appointed Thomas Johnstone Ltd to deliver the refurbishment of the high-traffic leisure and retail venue.

The redevelopment will enhance the centre’s layout, access, and appearance, aiming to create a more welcoming experience for the 4+ million people who visit each year.

What’s changing?

The team is reconfiguring the centre’s entrance with a bold new design. They’ll remove the existing V-columns and install single straight ones to open up the space. The plan also includes new revolving doors, a digital canopy with LED screens, external lighting upgrades, and regraded steps with a new retaining wall.

Inside, the escalator will be turned and repositioned, and the stairs and lift will move closer to the Weatherspoons side of the building. These changes improve access to the cinema level. At all times, the team will maintain clear access routes for visitors.

Six new kiosks will bring in additional vendors. New terrazzo flooring and upgraded lighting throughout the mall will modernise the space and improve the visitor experience.

Delivering in a live environment

TJL is managing the refurbishment with the centre fully open. The team planned a phased programme to maintain safe public access to all venues, including the cinema, restaurants, and bars, which trade from 8am to 2am.

Instead of working nights or weekends, which would disrupt trading, the team will work in carefully sequenced sections. Hoardings and signage will clearly direct foot traffic around live works.

A bold new chapter for OMNi

“This refurbishment marks the start of a brand-new phase for OMNi,” said Thomas Archer Bata, Director at Triple B. “The physical enhancements, coupled with a new mission to integrate and connect further into the vibrant city of Edinburgh, will deliver a greatly improved and welcoming space for our visitors.”

The project is due for completion in early 2026.