FASHION retailer Next is set to be the anchor store for the new Lychgate development, the complex's owner revealed today.

Tops Estates said the pre-letting would be a major draw for the centre and achieve its objective of developing the Lychgate into Worcester's "dominant fashion location".

It is understood the Next mens, ladies and childrenswear stores, currently in the High Street and CrownGate, will close.

"We've been talking to Next for some time and their commitment to Worcester has significantly increased, as has their requirement which has grown from 14,000sq ft to 21,500sq ft," said Adam Cohen, Tops managing director. "We look forward to handing over the store for fitting out next summer."

Tops, which has masterminded the multi-million pound revamp, is already in talks with other top fashion retailers to open alongside Next, Mr Cohen revealed.

The development, which will see the creation of six new fashion stores, will retain Sainsbury's, Monsoon, Jaeger and Top Shop.

Russell & Dorrell, a cornerstone of Worcester shopping, will close for good, with only its furniture business surviving.