An opening date has been confirmed for a new County Durham retail park as work at the site nears completion.

Building works at the Bishop Auckland Retail Park development are expected to be completed next month, with a grand opening planned at the beginning of the summer, it has been announced.

It comes just days after fried chicken chain Popeyes was confirmed as the latest tenant.

The Northern Echo: Bishop Auckland Retail Park.Bishop Auckland Retail Park. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The multi-million project will bring more national and local brands to the town, food outlets, retailers and a cinema.

Among those signed up for the scheme are The Range, Home Bargains, Reel Cinemas and PureGym.

Only six units are yet to have leases agreed.

The Northern Echo: The site will open at the beginning of the summer.The site will open at the beginning of the summer. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Adam Mobley, from developers WSB Property Consultants, said: “These retailers joining the scheme highlight the strong demand for connected experiences on the scheme and we are nearly at the end of the journey of providing a top-class retail and leisure scheme for the people of Bishop Auckland and the surrounding areas.”

Recommended reading:

Get more from The Northern Echo and start 2024 informed with 50% off an annual subscription or enjoy 3 months for just £3. Dive into local news and fulfill your resolution to stay updated. Click here.

Local politicians previously said they hoped it would attract more visitors to the area, as opposed to driving customers away from the town centre.

It comes as millions of pounds are being invested in the centre to pull in punters with a new Stack venue and public square being created on Newgate Street, and a new bus station under development.

The significant investment is part of a widespread redevelopment programme throughout Bishop Auckland, which includes funding from the Auckland Project and has already helped redevelop the historic town hall, Auckland Castle and Spanish Gallery.