by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Bluewater defied the national trend last month with a jump in visitor numbers and spending.

Lend Lease, which manages the retail and leisure complex between Gravesend and Dartford, announced today that sales in February were 6.7% higher than the same time a year ago, well above the national average of 2.7%. Footfall went up by 4.6%, ahead of national data showing a 2.4% decline across the UK.

A strong performance by anchor stores such as John Lewis, House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer - and a 16% hike in menswear sales - contributed to the rise.

Sales of children's clothing leapt 13%, with catering up 13.4%. Valentine's Day triggered a leap in jewellery sales, with diamond rings a strong seller.

Bluewater general manager Robert Goodman said: "Bluewater's momentum in 2013 continues, driven by the quality of our offer, the breadth of catering and ease of access."

The complex had continued to innovate "to enhance the guest experience, particularly through events at Glow, as well as strong promotional activity."

Meanwhile, several new flagship stores are about to open at Bluewater - Superdry, Triumph and Tempur.