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Richmond Centre turns ghost town as stores shutter during COVID-19

One of Richmond’s main shopping hubs was almost void of life Tuesday, following pleas from public health authorities to limit gatherings to 50 people and practise social distancing.

One of Richmond’s main shopping hubs was almost void of life Tuesday, following pleas from public health authorities to limit gatherings to 50 people and practise social distancing.

Many retail stores and services at Cadillac Fairview (CF) Richmond Centre decided to close-up shop for the next two weeks in a bid to reduce the spread of COVID-19 (the coronavirus).

The hallways of the mall were almost empty, with only a few individuals loitering around and peering into the closed store windows.

Some areas were completely deserted.

Many Richmond Centre stores, such as Apple, Artizia, Browns, Muji and Uniqlo, had already closed late last week.

Shops that still had their doors open had occasional customers walking in, but most looked in through the glass display.

Meanwhile, the second-floor food court, as well as other places where food is served, had seating removed and were offering “take-out only.”

Cadillac Fairview announced that their “first priority” is the health and safety of guests, employees and tenants.

“In light of many local governments taking actions to support our communities during this difficult time, Cadillac Fairview, as well as our industry peers will be limiting the hours of operation at our shopping malls,” said Cadillac Fairview in a statement.

CF Richmond Centre has reduced their operating hours to 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day for the next two weeks and will “re-assess” the situation again.

For a full list of store and restaurant closures in Richmond click here.

For more of our COVID-19 coverage, click here