A major retailer could be poised to move into Southend's Victoria Plaza shopping centre, giving the town a massive trading boost.
It is understood American giant Walmart, which owns the Asda supermarket chain, is in discussions with the leaseholders of the shopping centre and Southend Council about moving into the centre.
Town clerk George Krawiec said: "We are aware of an interest which has been expressed in the centre but we are unable to say anything further at the moment.
"If the rumours are correct, we would welcome any interest in an important development in the town."
The centre has been without a major tenant in a major part of the development since the C&A department store closed five years ago.
A public relations company dealing with the Plaza declined to confirm whether the rumours were true.
Published Wednesday November 19, 2003
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