THE massive £350 million development of The Rock continues to act as a magnet by attracting new names to Bury.

Progress shows no signs of slowing with more than 18,000 sq ft of retail space signed up by retailers over the past seven days.

The news coincides with the appointment of Nikki Kitchen as marketing manager. Nikkie has a wealth of retail and leisure experience and will join the team which will manage the scheme.

All five new signings at The Rock are new brands to Bury. The Entertainer, the largest independent retailer of toys in the UK has taken 4,000 sq ft, and international shoe retailer, DEICHMANN, will occupy 8,300 sq ft. The Perfume Shop has also signed up to occupy 510 sq ft.

Also joining the mix of high street favourites are two independents. They are high-end jewellers, Peter Jackson Jewellers, which has taken 2,100 sq ft, and family owned retailer, Hurley, which stocks well-known brands such as Firetrap, Ted Baker and Duck & Cover. They have taken 3,100 sq ft.

Ms Kitchen said: “There is a fantastic mix of retail and leisure operators already secured and the five new signings which bring new brands to Bury will certainly add to The Rock’s retail appeal.”