NEW shops could soon be opening in Swindon's Brunel Centre.

And there is also a scheme to regenerate a nearby street, outside the shopping complex.

The centre's owner CIT which bought the complex earlier this year says it is aiming to enhance it by improving the mix of shops and upgrading the Brunel's shopping environment.

David Miller, of Alder King, the scheme's letting agent said: "There has been a great deal of interest and we have five new retailers opening over the next few months."

Mr Miller said he was unable to disclose names until the contracts had been signed but said that shop fitting for one of the new retailers was already taking place.

He said: "Incoming retailers will be offered long leases on units within the centre and we will be targeting independents, fashion retailers and home improvement retailers in the first instance.

"The long leases will allow the tenants to invest in their shop fit and really grow their businesses, while at the same time adding value to the centre."

CIT bought the shopping centre from Australian firm Westfield.

Mr Miller said that the new owner's approach was different to Westfield's and CIT was looking to the long-term rather than the short-term.

Meanwhile, plans to revamp a Granville Street have been given the go ahead.

At a meeting of the council's cabinet this week, councillors approved a scheme that will see the street area regenerated.

The street was originally part of Westfield's planned expansion and regeneration of the Brunel Shopping Centre, but the plans were put on hold when Westfield sold the centre. The new owners have no plans to expand the centre.

Council leader Mike Bawden, (Con, Old Town and Lawns) said the move was a positive one.

"This is an example of our determination to overcome obstacles and push forward with the regeneration of the town centre," he said.

"Instead of sitting on our hands after Westfield moved on we are actively seeking an alternative that will enhance the area and release funds for the council to invest in delivering services."

Rosemary Wells, of the New Swindon Company tasked with the regeneration of the town said: "We will be working closely with the council on the development of the Granville Street area.

"It is good news for the area and shows that even after Westfield sold the centre there is still interest in pushing forward the regeneration."

Anthony Osborne