A new retail complex in Exeter will create up to 400 jobs when it is anticipated to open next year, according to reports.

The complex, which will be based at Sowton will be known as the Moor Exchange and will include shops, cafes and restaurants as well as a crèche, banking facilities, local small scale foodstore, health and fitness centre, optician, chemist, travel agency, coffee shops and a variety of restaurants and takeaways.

Martin Ridgway, managing director of developer Consolidated Property Group (CPG), which also owns Exeter’s Exebridge Retail Park, said: “A district centre in this location will make key services readily available to thousands of people working locally…I must stress that Moor Exchange is complementary to Exeter’s existing excellent shopping facilities and will not detract from them.

“It is aimed very much at local top-up and lunchtime shopping, ensuring retail spend is captured and retained within Exeter.” Mr Ridgway added: “Even before the scheme has been formally launched, we have had an exceptionally high level of interest from a wide variety of businesses interested in taking space at Moor Exchange.

“The public consultation will allow us to fine tune our initial proposals and get more information on the types of shops and services people would like to see included.”