A BUSY shopping centre says its reopening after lockdown has surpassed expectations - with more new shops set to join shortly.

Lion Walk Shopping Centre in Colchester reopened to customers in June with a Covid-19 safe strategy.

These include a one-way system, shop stewards and hand sanitiser stations.

Despite lockdown, the shopping centre has bounced back and customers have returned Centre manager Martin Leatherdale said: “It was boosted with the launch of the summer drinks terrace.

“We had our best week of footfall where it returned to 97 per cent year on year when compared.

“I have also been told Primark is outperforming and has had a spike in sales.

“Dear Grace is also seen a big boost and is outperforming Christmas 2019.

“We might be seeing less shoppers compared to last year, but they have cash and they are spending - they mean business.”

The centre is looking towards five new shops which are in line to open.

Mr Leatherdale said the centre was also prepared to react to any restrictions introduced in the weeks and months to come.

“We will go above and beyond to be in line with Government guidance and protect customers and colleagues,” he said