A MAJOR fashion retailer has signed up to Barons Quay, borough chiefs have announced this afternoon.

Both Cheshire West and Chester Council and local ward councillors have remained tight-lipped over who the retailer is, but sources close to the Guardian believe it to be H&M.

The unnamed retailer has exchanged an unconditional contract with CWAC, to take up a 21,500sq ft store in the development.

In a statement released by CWAC, Cllr Brian Clarke, cabinet member for economic development and infrastructure, said: “I’m delighted to be able to share this news with local residents.

“The commitment to opening a store of this size in Northwich is testament to the belief that we have always held that the town is on the up.

“Our investment in Barons Quay was always a long-term commitment and we’re determined that Northwich establishes itself as a go-to shopping and leisure destination for local and wider Cheshire residents.”

CWAC says that fit-out work at the store will begin ‘imminently’ and that contractors have been engaged.

No firm date has yet been agreed for an opening but the council says that work is being timed to ensure that the store maximises pre-Christmas trade.

The news follows last week’s announcement of a £70 million women’s football centre of excellence in Northwich, while CWAC is also set to regenerate Weaver Square as part of its wider £129 million investment in the town.

“It’s part of our commitment to regeneration in the town,” Cllr Clarke added.

“So much has been going on behind the scenes to make sure that Northwich town centre and Barons Quay are supporting local residents to thrive and today’s news goes a long way towards our ultimate goals.

“Off the back of the news that Cheshire County FA has chosen Northwich to create a unique world class football facility on the outskirts of the town centre, the success of local band the Charlatans coming home last and our Weaver Square consultation opening next week there’s a lot to celebrate.

“This is the first of a number of good news stories I expect we will be able to share over the coming weeks. We remain absolutely confident that as Barons Quay becomes established and the town grows, the benefits for local people will be unquestionable.”

Once the new retailer is signed up, 56 per cent of Barons Quay’s floorspace will be occupied.

The Guardian has attempted to contact H&M for comment.