Exeter's new and exciting shopping quarter, Princesshay, has been officially opened.

The Lord Mayor of Exeter, Councillor Hazel Slack, declared the shopping quarter open on Thursday morning (September 20).

The £225m scheme represents the single largest investment in the history of the city, creating more than 1,500 new jobs.

Princesshay manager Sally Henley said: "After five years of planning, Princesshay is finally open.

"We believe the irresistible range of shopping, restaurants and cafes, together with the heritage city location, will be a big draw for shoppers and visitors to the region, and those keen to enjoy a unique and exceptional shopping experience."

Princesshay has transformed the city centre retail line-up, with over sixty new shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as the delivery of 123 apartments.

With 95 per cent of the scheme let on opening, Princesshay has focused on bringing inspirational fashion retailers to Exeter, including Karen Millen, Zara, All Saints, LK Bennett, Hobbs, Coast, Faith, La Senza, Jane Norman and Reiss.

Sally Henley, Princesshay: "We believe the irresistible range of shopping, restaurants and cafes, together with the heritage city location, will be a big draw for shoppers and visitors to the region, and those keen to enjoy a unique and exceptional shopping experience."

As well as offering larger opportunities for anchor store Debenhams, Next and Top Shop, Fat Face will open its largest UK store at Princesshay.

Caroline Charles, Beaverbrooks The Jewellers, AllSaints and Cult Clothing are the latest additions to the list of prestigious retailers, stylish restaurants and cafes.

The majority of local and regional independent retailers are located in Roman Walk and Bedford Street, with the mix including an optician, a jeweller, a delicatessen and contemporary florist.

Local and regional retailers include Orange Tree, a high quality homestyle products and gifts retailer, South West jeweller Carol Anne, award winning, contemporary lifestyle store Inside Out and exclusive fashion retailer AH Moda.

One major brand name making a first appearance in the South West is international computer specialist Apple, a significant endorsement for Exeter as a regional shopping destination.

Princesshay also includes a superb new café and restaurant culture for local residents and visitors to enjoy.

New restaurants to the city include Giraffe, Exeshed, Nando’s, Strada, Café Rouge, La Tasca and Wagamama.

"Whether it's simply enjoying a Costa coffee or sipping a citron pressé at Café Rouge, with the stunning Cathedral as a backdrop, Princesshay restaurants and cafés cater to every taste," added Henley.

"It's the ideal way to refresh before heading back to the shops for exceptional retail therapy!"

The article New shopping centre opens in Devon originally appeared on 999 Today