Developers who are revamping a Biggleswade retail park hope to attract more big-name stores now Next and Marks & Spencer are on board.
LXB have confirmed that two or three other household name retailers are now showing an interest in the London Road Retail Park.
Matelan have also confirmed that they will continue to trade there.
Speaking at a meeting of Biggleswade Town Council on Tuesday (March 26), Nick Alford, property director at LXB said momentum was building.
He said: “Marks & Spencer and Next are obviously our anchor stores and we are very pleased that we have exchanged contracts with them.
“Other retailers have shown an interest but naturally some have been hesitant until they know for sure who else is going to open there.”
Negotiations with Next have been extensive and LXB have been impressed with the clothing giant’s style and attention to detail.
Mr Alford added: “Next have been quite particular about the design and look of their store and we are sure that it will look quite spectacular when it opens.
“They will typically spend a lot of money on their fit-out which is good news for them and us, and for the overall look of the retail park.”
LXB are also working closely with Central Beds Council and the Highways Agency on the changes which will be implemented in the affected part of London Road close to the A1, Mr Alford told councillors.
He said: “We will also be planting new trees to create a boulevard look which should improve the look of the retail park further.”
The redevelopment will occur in three phases.
Mr Alford said: “This is to ensure that continuity of trade will be maintained for the existing tenants throughout.
“Once the necessary consents are in place the group hopes to start phase one in the autumn of this year.”
Homebase may move to another site close by in London Road after the firm indicated that it may not be appropriate for it to trade on the same site as the new clothing stores.