BUSINESSES in the town centre are being told to expect a boost in trade as the first part of the Regent Circus development is completed next week.

Supermarket Morrisons will open its doors to shoppers on Monday morning with anticipation high that many other shops in the area will benefit.

The supermarket is the first phase of the redevelopment which will see a new cinema and restaurants also open in the coming months.

Cineworld has already started to fit out its unit while all the restaurants, which include chains such as Nandos and Ask, will have begun by the end of November.

The project has been delayed by several months but after seven years of planning and building on the former college site, those involved believe it will be worth the wait.

James Digby, of Ashfield Land which owns the site, said: “We are delighted that Morrisons are ready to open. We have been involved for a number of years so it is great to be approaching the conclusion.

“Cineworld have now moved in, as have some of the restaurants. The rest will have moved in shortly.

“I think the plan is for them to open by February. I think it will be a huge benefit to the town centre. It will give people a chance to come and stay in Swindon for not only their shopping but also their leisure instead of going to Bath or Reading.”

In the past, many have spoken about the top end of town being neglected but Regent Circus is set to change that according to council leaders.

Councillor Garry Perkins (Con, Haydon Wick), cabinet member for economic regeneration, believes the opening of Morrisons will kick-start the transformation of the town centre.

He said: “This will be the beginning of the rebirth of the town centre. The economic situation meant it has taken time but it is the banks who lead with these things.

“The increased amount of footfall Morrisons and the rest of Regent Circus will bring will benefit everyone in the town.

“When you look up towards the top of the town centre the dog leg means you can’t see the top of the town which has often acted as a barrier. Now there is something to bring people.”

Morrisons opens to the public at 9am on Monday.