A deserted shopping centre which has been described as ‘key’ for Wrexham’s image is officially ‘under offer’.

The multi-million pound Henblas Square development, opened in 1999 by former Blue Peter presenter Tim Vincent, was put up for sale in March this year by commercial agents Allsop.

Allsop has now confirmed to the Leader that the site – which was once home to major names including BHS and TJ Hughes – is currently under offer and contracts are expected to be exchanged later this week.

A spokesman for Allsop added: “At present, we are not looking for any further offers.”

The company did not tell the Leader who the mystery buyer could be.

Wrexham town centre forum chairman Nigel Lewis has said previously that restoring that part of town to its former glory would be key to continue rebuilding Wrexham’s image.

The Allsop listing for the site reads: “The property comprises a modern shopping centre constructed in 1999 arranged over ground, first and second floors to provide two large retail units, six smaller retail units, two kiosks and 17,496 sq ft of office accommodation.

“With regards to the vacant space the council has expressed it would support a widening of the retail user class, permitting the purchaser to explore alternative uses subject to the necessary planning consent.” 

Following the announcement that the development had been put up for sale, many Wrexham shoppers told the Leader they hoped the move would help bring some of the units back into use with their ideas for the site including a family friendly place to eat, a concert square and a retro-style vegetable market.