Byron Burger and Wagamamas are two chains showing an interest in Preston

Wagamamas, Prezzo, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Byron Burger and Bill’s are just some of the chain restaurants waiting in line to devour Preston’s restaurant scene – according to shopping centre bosses.

Fishergate Shopping Centre claims they have been inundated with queries after announcing their £40million cinema and restaurant plan.

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They say up to eight times as many big name restaurants, including Ed’s Easy Diner and Chiquitos, all want to move into what will only be a few restaurant units in the plans for the former TJ Hughes shop.

David Gooch, from retail consultants GCW, said: “For a city the size of Preston the restaurant offer is very limited. The exceptional number of requirements reflects the pent up demand and the frustration the major chains have with the lack of suitable units and locations in the city centre.”

Benson Elliot, the venture capital firm who own the shopping centre, are bullish about their plans – saying it will be a major step in the regeneration of Preston.

Peter Cornforth, director of retail, said: “The interest in Preston is growing. Our regeneration plan is just the start and the arrival of well-known national chains at the Fishergate Shopping Centre will send out a message to others in the sector that Preston can deliver.

“Getting our mid-market retail and family oriented project up and running in the next few months could open the flood gates of interest for a real revolution in the city-wide dining and leisure experience.

“Many of the big names who want to come into Preston are also looking at the tourism, late evening and student markets that exist and are envisaged elsewhere in the city centre, such as the emerging Markets Quarter.

“It is an encouraging sign that they want to do business in Preston. What we have to do now is convert that interest into action and we believe that our blend of modern shopping and leisure will be a strong first step, raising the city’s profile and potential amongst the wide and still increasing pool of branded food and beverage operators.

“Preston is back on the radar for the restaurant and leisure sector and there are real opportunities here.”

The Fishergate Centre plans are due to go before councillors in March for a decision.

It comes as the city council looks to submit its own plans for demolishing the Indoor Market, car park and Lancastria House to build a new cinema and restaurant complex.

What do you think of the Fishergate plans? Have you eaten at any of these restaurants before? Let us know in the comments below