The district council is remaining tight-lipped over rumours that retailer Next will be joining Dover’s St James’ development.

A former member of the Dover Society said the rumours, circulating around the town, suggest that the clothes store will be placed next to the Marks & Spencer’s Simply Food outlet.

A district council spokesman said: “DDC and our development partners are involved in a number of discussions with a variety of retailers.

“We will make further announcements as soon as we are able to, but are not able to comment further at this stage.”

Companies currently signed up the the development are:

• Multiplex cinema, Cineworld, which will include six screens
• M&S Simply Food outlet
• Frankie and Benny's Italian restaurant
• A hotel with 120 rooms

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