STEVE GILBERT GETS SNEAK PREVIEW OF TOWN CENTRE

11.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 23rd Oct 2009

A new street in St Austell redevelopment - almost finished

Steve Gilbert, prospective local MP, got a sneak preview of the new St Austell Town Centre on Thursday when he was given a guided tour of the £75 million site.

White River Place has already let 65% of its retail space to big names such as Peacocks, New Look and Wilkinsons. More new stores are expected to be unveiled in the next couple of weeks.

Speaking after his visit, Steve said: "I grew up in St Austell, my first job was at Roy Dutch's camera shop. I know how important this project has been for our area. I remember what the town used to be like and over the last couple of years I've watched as the project grew from just a hole in the ground.

"I was very lucky to be given a guided tour of the site before the official opening. The complex looks great, Sir Robert McAlpine have done a great job; they put so much care and attention into the detail and have really involved the community.

"I can't wait to see the site bustling with busy shoppers in the next couple of weeks."