Derby city centre will be changed by the new-look centre

Both chains are relocating to the new multi-million pound Eagle Centre development in the city centre.

They will be two of the largest shops in the new shopping complex which is due to open in 2007.

Work on the �310m redevelopment, put forward by the Westfield group, is expected to start later this year now that planning matters are resolved.

changing city centre

Marks & Spencer will combine its two city centre stores when it moves, and Debenhams will be taking up a larger 127,000 sq ft site.

Derby's Chamber of Trade says the move is a positive one but will significantly change the face of the city centre.

Plans to expand and modernise shopping facilities needed a compulsory purchase order to take in adjoining land.