DEVELOPERS behind a £90 million shopping complex on the edge of York say they hope to announce which firms will operate restaurants and food kiosks at the site within six weeks.

Work is under way on the Vangarde development at Monks Cross, which will include John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and Next stores, after the discovery of protected great crested newts led to construction being delayed as they were rehomed.

It is set to open by next Easter and unlock funding for a neighbouring 6,000-seater community stadium for York City FC and York City Knights.

Richard France, managing director of developers the Oakgate Group, said agreements for the remaining units, relating to the scheme’s food and drink facilities, are expected to be signed in the next four to six weeks.

The project will create 1,000 jobs and Oakgate has said it will boost York’s economy by at least £12 million a year.

The development was approved by City of York Council last May and the Government subsequently said a public inquiry into the scheme would not be held, after opponents claimed it would affect city-centre shops and force businesses in the heart of York to close or move.

The building work is being carried out by Caddick Construction, and the complex will also include a boulevard and a central walkway linking the stores to the Monks Cross Park&Ride site.