Fashion retailer Next is gearing up to open one of its largest ever stores on the site of a former BHS in intu Metrocentre, Gateshead.

The new 85,000 sq ft unit will become one of the fashion retailer’s largest stores when it opens in 2018, creating a number of new jobs in the centre.

Kate Grant, regional director at intu, said: “This fantastic new space at the heart of intu Metrocentre will build on the strength of what is already one of Next’s most successful stores, allowing them to attract even more customers and create a number of new jobs.

“It’s a significant investment by Next that sits alongside our own investment programme and similar expansions by House of Fraser and Primark this year, representing a long-term commitment to intu Metrocentre and the north east region as a thriving retail destination.”