The Trade and Investment Minister has welcomed Westfield and Hammerson’s £1 billion redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre and Centrale.

Lord Green described the decision to proceed with the development as a “welcome recognition of the underlying strength of the British retail sector.”

He added: “Westfield's Stratford City, adjacent to the Olympic Park, exceeded all expectations during London 2012 demonstrating to the world our love of shopping and offering a prime showcase for the many British brands on sale there.

"The Croydon centre will be Westfield's third major investment in London and confirms the company as a major international investor in Britain, creating tens of thousands of jobs.

“I wish both Westfield and Hammerson well for this exciting new development."