One of the most significant days in Watford’s modern history happened 31 years ago today when the Harlequin Centre officially opened its doors to shoppers.

Work on the 12-acre site had started in the autumn of 1988 and it cost more than £100million to build. The phased opening of the Capital Shopping Centres-owned development had begun in 1990, but it was on June 16, 1992 that it fully opened to the public.

Watford Observer: The centre is declared open.The centre is declared open. (Image: Watford Observer)

The Harlequin was arranged on two levels, known as Upper and Lower Mall, and this copy of the pre-opening leaflet from our friends at Watford Museum shows how it was laid out.

Watford Observer: The leaflet cover showing interior and exterior views of the Harlequin.The leaflet cover showing interior and exterior views of the Harlequin. (Image: Watford Museum)

The ‘Welcome to the Harlequin’ introduction read: “By summer 1992 not only will there be Trewins and other major stores such as Marks & Spencer, BHS, Littlewoods, and Boots trading from the malls, but also 150 additional shops providing you with the widest range of shopping – all under one roof. One of the UK’s largest shopping centres – and it’s right here on your doorstep.

Watford Observer: The introduction of the leaflet.The introduction of the leaflet. (Image: Watford Museum)

“The Harlequin will have 2,200 new car parking spaces directly connected to the malls by lifts, stairs and escalators; a playgroup for children aged two-and-a-half to five, baby rooms and full facilities for the disabled. The food court, seating 380 in a Parisian setting, together with cafes and restaurants will offer a wide range of snacks, meals and refreshments.

Watford Observer: A map showing the Upper Mall.A map showing the Upper Mall. (Image: Watford Museum)

“Between now and summer 1992 you will see many exciting changes at The Harlequin as the various new areas open for trading.

Watford Observer: A map showing the Lower Mall.A map showing the Lower Mall. (Image: Watford Museum)

“Shop at The Harlequin – it’s easy to get to, fun to shop in, and offers a large choice in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere!”

Watford Observer: A map and introduction to the Food Court.A map and introduction to the Food Court. (Image: Watford Museum)

The Harlequin has evolved over the years – through changes of ownership and name to intu and atria; many of its shops have come and gone and new ones have opened while the centre itself has expanded into what used to be Charter Place. Through all the changes though, it contnues to attract thousands of shoppers every week.

Watford Observer: Shoppers at the opening ceremony.Shoppers at the opening ceremony. (Image: Watford Observer)

Scroll through these pictures from our archive below as we celebrate the 31st anniversary of the opening of Watford’s shopping centre.

Watford Observer: The opening ceremony.The opening ceremony. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: One young shopper gets in the spirit with a Harlequin mask.One young shopper gets in the spirit with a Harlequin mask. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The Harlequin keeps shoppers entertained.The Harlequin keeps shoppers entertained. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: These youngsters were enjoying themselves.These youngsters were enjoying themselves. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The Harlequin stops to talk to a young child in a buggy.The Harlequin stops to talk to a young child in a buggy. (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: A presentation with staff outside Marks & SpencerA presentation with staff outside Marks & Spencer (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: The Harlequin with dignitaries.The Harlequin with dignitaries. (Image: Watford Observer)