Centrale, Croydon's new £100-million shopping centre currently under construction in the town centre, has signed up another top global fashion retailer in time for its opening this summer, writes Joseph O'Shea.

ALDO, the Canadian fashion footwear, leather goods and accessories retailer has agreed to occupy a 2,120sq ft North End fronting store and will open in early Summer alongside Zara and NEXT.

The ALDO Group operates over 600 free-standing high-quality footwear stores worldwide, including London, Bluewater and Southampton.

Centrale developer, St Martins Property Group, has also confirmed two additional letting agreements with the premier league sports and fashion retailer, Allsports and up-market jewellers Ernest Jones. A further eight leading fashion and lifestyle retailers are expected to complete deals with St Martins shortly.

St Martins' Lindsey Robinson said: "The agreement with ALDO is especially significant as it is yet further evidence that Centrale is attracting high-profile fashion and lifestyle retailers who are not currently represented in the area.

"Interest in Centrale is at an all time high. A recent open day attracted over 60 agents and retailers who appreciate that Croydon is set to regain its status as a major regional retail destination."

These deals are just the latest boost for Centrale which was recently granted planning permission for an additional roof-top restaurant gallery above North End.