WORK is nearing completion on the bulk of Kidderminster's impressive new Weavers Wharf shopping development ahead of next month's opening.

Only two stores on the 350,000 sq ft site have yet to be let - but development manager David Lewis said they are attracting interest and could be snapped up before the ribbon is cut.

Five new tenants have taken the development to near-capacity with New Look, Sports World, Chinese herbalist Shizhen, Clinton Cards all signing on the dotted line and restaurant Frankie and Benny's confirming its place, revealed exclusively in the Shuttle/Times & News in July.

Music and video giant HMV had been considering a spot on the site but has now switched its attentions elsewhere in the town after all suitable premises were grabbed.

The two remaining vacant stores are two small for its needs, each having two floors of 1,000 sq ft.

The new additions join names such as Marks and Spencer, Next, JJB, TK Maxx, Tesco, Brantano, West Midlands Co-op and Pizza Hut on the exciting development.

Mr Lewis, of developer Centros Miller, said: "Interest in Weavers Wharf has been overwhelming. With the scheme due to open in October I am confident we will be 100 per cent let before completion.

"The quality of the tenant line up and the new lettings only add to the calibre we have already attracted. The scheme will truly change the attraction of Kidderminster as a retail destination."

Discount designer clothes and homeware department store De Bradelei Mills is opening the largest of its six stores - and its first in the region - on the site in the Grade II listed former wool spinning factory Slingfield Mill.

A spokesman said work is progressing "smoothly" on the 1864 mill, which has been empty since carpet firm Brintons expanded in 1988.

It boasts an exterior of red brickwork with blue and white coursework and arched windows which is being renovated, while £1 million is being spent on the interior refurbishment.