SHOPPERS have questioned the future of Stretford Mall after a number of stores suddenly shut up shop – but management claim the mall is experiencing its highest footfall in years.

Over the past year, B&M, Vodafone, Iceland, Superdrug and Suya have all vacated the Chester Road shopping centre, with TJ Hughes expected to leave in January.

But Stretford Mall has dismissed concerns that the centre is struggling, pointing out that Aldi, Costa Coffee, JD Sports, My Toys My Gadgets and Homefair Blinds have all opened in the same time period.

Fashion retailer Select is the mall’s newest addition.

“2016 has been a positive year for us,” said Gareth Wilkins, Stretford Mall central manager. “Although we have had store closures due to circumstances out of our control, such as a restructuring decision from Iceland and the lease expiring at Superdrug - that was quickly filled by Select - we’ve been working tirelessly to ensure we have the best possible retail options for our shoppers. The names that we have added to Stretford Mall this year are giants of the retail world and demonstrate what an attractive proposition we are to well-known, successful companies.”

Gareth also highlighted the success of the market traders, with Reel Around the Fountain and Melantha Gifts celebrating their first year at the mall and baby clothes stall Omix expanding with a traditional sweets and gifts store, Three Wishes.

“Stretford Mall has seen substantial multi-million-pound investment from the landlord this year alone that has focused on developing the overall shopping experience for visitors and businesses alike, including more than £500,000 on the car park with three hours free parking now available at the centre,” said Gareth. “This underlines their confidence and commitment to the future of the centre.”