Once upon a time Wembley was a shoppers’ paradise for scores of bargain hunters and those days are set to return. News editor Lorraine King visited the site of the new London Designer Outlet in Wembley Park, which will open on October 24, to find out what’s in store.

Brent & Kilburn Times: London Designer Outlet will open its doors on October 24 (Pic credit: Jan Nevill)London Designer Outlet will open its doors on October 24 (Pic credit: Jan Nevill) (Image: Archant)

Shops such as Marks & Spencer, Clarks and Pizza Express – which left Wembley more than a decade ago – will be coming back after signing up to the London Designer Outlet (LDO).

Brent & Kilburn Times: London Designer Outlet will open its doors on October 24 (Pic credit: Jan Nevill)London Designer Outlet will open its doors on October 24 (Pic credit: Jan Nevill) (Image: Archant)

The 350,000sq ft centre will offer homeware, clothing and other goods with discounts of up to 70 per cent.

It will also be home to an array of eateries including Prezzo and Wagamama in addition to a 1,200-seat cinema.

Looking around the site it’s hard to believe in less than a month’s time this will be the home of the only discount outlet within the M25.

It will have an opening occupancy rate of 70pc and by the time it hosts a second opening in April it is hoped to be full – maybe even with a waiting list.

The outlet boasts four corner/anchor stores; the largest M&S outlet in the UK measuring 21,197sq ft, Nike (9,201), Gap (8,325) and Clarks (5,321).

As well as attracting locals and people from all over the country, LDO hopes it will become a magnet to international bargain hunters.

They are currently putting together a package where tourists can stay at the nearby Hilton Hotel; enjoy a tour of Wembley Stadium and finish off with a shopping trip to LDO.

Drivers are also being catered for with the creation of a new 1,500-space car park.

All the stores, which are opening next month, are in the midst of a recruitment programme with an emphasis on employing local residents.

Deborah Owen-Ellis Clark, LDO’s retail strategist, said: “As London’s only outlet centre, LDO is set to play a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Wembley and its status as a source of vibrant cultural trends.”

In addition, LDO is looking for residents with a strong link to Brent to become a London lifestylist who will sit on their ambassador panel. The lucky winners, who must be over the age of 16, will represent the voice of their peers, ensuring the centre stays on top of the latest trends and up to date with local opinion.

In exchange they will be given a host of exclusive benefits, including shopping vouchers to be spent at LDO, and tickets for selected events at Wembley Stadium and Arena.

They must show a passion for food or fashion.

For more information visit www.london-designer-outlet.com.