THE new Partington Shopping Centre was officially opened on Tuesday.

The ribbon was cut on the 25,000 sq ft centre which will include a new market square and 126 space car park by owner's Peel Holdings, the Mayor of Trafford Cllr Ejaz Malik and by management of a new Tesco Extra.

Other tenants lined up when the development is complete include Heron Frozen Foods,The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, McColl’s, Sayers, and M Cook Bookmaker.

The new market square, accommodating new makeshift stalls for the market is also being provided along with improved green space and hard landscaping features to help provide an attractive and welcoming setting for the shops.

The new Tesco Express has recruited more than 20 staff from the local area to work in the new store.

Store manager, Ben Gregory said: “I was thrilled by the response we received to our recruitment drive”

Tesco presented Partington's Children's Centre with a cheque for £500 and have pledged their support going forward.

The corporate director for economic growth, environment and infrastructure Cllr Michael Hyman said: “This is a tremendous milestone to reach and the council is extremely pleased to have been part of this project, which is not only creating a fantastic shopping centre, but much needed employment and training opportunities into the area.

"Moreover, the opening of the shopping centre in time for Christmas will be of huge benefit to the local community with retailers both large and small being directly on their doorstep.

"This achievement signals the start of what will be the first of major investment into the area - driving improvement and wider economic growth.”

Louise Morrissey, director of land and planning for Peel said “We are confident that the mix of occupiers will result in an attractive and welcoming centre where people will want to come and shop."

The new centre is a key part of the wider regeneration vision for Partington Village, which includes the building of 550 family homes at Lock Lane and Hall Lane fronting on to the Manchester Ship Canal, with new and improved recreational provision through the four mile Green Loop circling the village for all residents to enjoy.

Tesco Express will open its doors to customers in Partington, at 8am on December 12.