Belfast shopping centre CastleCourt could undergo a major refurbishment early next year as bosses are in talks with new food and fashion retailers following a series of recent openings, it has emerged.

Following a string of new tenants, including Matalan, Vila, DV8 and Starbucks undergoing a refit, Costa Coffee is also set to refurbish and reinvest in its existing cafe.

According to Paul Wilson, retail director at property services firm Savills, other deals - including fashion, footwear and beverage - could also be signed in the coming weeks.

He said "complete refurbishment" plans are under way for the centre - now owned by Co Down firm Wirefox - including the mall layout and "elevation treatments", with work kicking off at the start of next year.

The centre is pushing back against a city centre slump in footfall of more than 30%, after a fire gutted the Bank Buildings, home to Primark, in August.

"You have to keep revitalising and refreshing the retail offer," Mr Wilson said.

"We want to provide the best mixture possible for the consumer. The demands are changing and we are moving to meet the needs and wants.

"We are very excited about what's happening around CastleCourt, with the university opening in the next year or two and bringing city living, student and private, into the city centre.

"We see the regeneration of that location enhancing the footfall and spending in the city centre," he added.

Belfast Telegraph