Sales at Bluewater in Kent were up by 2.6 per cent in January compared with the same period last year, figures released by owner Lend Lease have revealed.

Like-for-like footfall in the centre was also up on last year, with a 2 per cent rise in shoppers for the month.

Lend Lease senior asset manager for Bluewater Russell Loveland said: “This is a difficult market, but Bluewater is rising to the challenge. Our retailers are working to maximise the increased footfall with compelling store designs, full-range offers and, in some instances, great promotions.”