Grand Central to replace Pallasades in Birmingham

A major shopping centre in the heart of Birmingham will be renamed as part of a £600 million redevelopment anchored by department store John Lewis.

The Pallasades Shopping Centre is being transformed and will be known as Grand Central Birmingham when it opens in August 2014.

Bosses said they are in talks with up to 100 retailers who do not currently have stand-alone stores within the second city about the prospect of opening outlets.

Birmingham's New Street Station is undergoing a major transformation along with the creation of a 250,000 sqft John Lewis store and space for more than 50 shops.

The new name has been inspired by the centre's railway connections and hopes to attract around 50 million visitors each year to the new stores and station.

Grand Central leasing director, Keith Stone, said: "Birmingham doesn't currently have a centrally-located shopping destination for premium fashion brands such as can be found in other major UK cities. Grand Central will now fulfil this demand within the city. We have already had a great response from the retailers we have spoken with."

John Lewis managing director, Andy Street, added: "We are very pleased our new full-line department store will be anchoring Grand Central Birmingham and look forward to playing an active role in cementing Birmingham's status as a key retail destination."

The design features sweeping curved archways and glass panelled ceilings.