It's 36 years since work began on a huge construction project that was to transform shopping in Watford – the building of what became the Harlequin Centre.

Demolition and site clearance had been taking place throughout 1988, but on August 30 a Watford Observer photographer captured these images of work starting on Mars One, the original name given to the project.

The new shopping centre cost more than £100 million to build and the phased opening of the Capital Shopping Centres-owned development began in 1990, with the full opening taking place on June 16, 1992.

(Image: Watford Observer)

The centre was arranged on two levels – the Upper and Lower Mall – and a pre-opening promotional leaflet ‘Welcome to the Harlequin’ 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.

Demolition work continuesDemolition work continues (Image: Watford Observer)

“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.

Diggers get to workDiggers get to work (Image: Watford Observer)

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

Watford Auction Rooms and the Lower High Street gasometer in the backgroundWatford Auction Rooms and the Lower High Street gasometer in the background (Image: Watford Observer)

“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!”

A mobile crane at work on the Mars One siteA mobile crane at work on the Mars One site (Image: Watford Observer)

A car drives past a low loader trailerA car drives past a low loader trailer (Image: Watford Observer)

The Harlequin Centre - now atria - continues to be used by thousands of shoppers every yearThe Harlequin Centre - now atria - continues to be used by thousands of shoppers every year (Image: Watford Observer)