Strand Centre defends new owners

The Strand Shopping Centre insists Sports Direct is investing in the Island, despite a number of stores closing in the complex.

The retail giant purchased the centre earlier this year, with long-standing tenants including HMV and Mothercare among those closing in the coming weeks.

Responding to a Facebook post criticising Sports Direct, the Strand Shopping Centre claims it was Mothercare's choice not to renew the lease, while rising shipping costs were a factor for HMV.

The post also said there will be heavy investment and redevelopment in the centre shortly, and that details of the plans will be revealed shortly.