Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, the first out-of-town retail complex in the south east, is 40-years-old.

And unlike the high street scene where major household names are disappearing, business is going from strength to strength.

It started off with the SavaCentre, a large hypermarket combining British Home Stores and Sainsbury’s. Others including Marks & Spencer, Argos, Boots and, more recently, TK Maxx and M&Co followed.

And a major expansion plan for five new large units and a raised car park deck was announced earlier this year.

Testament to its success is that many of the original tenants remain yet at the same time management is committed to keeping up with changing shopping trends.

Manager Mark Rumfitt said: “Key to our success is that we fit in with the catchment area. Our customers have grown up with us.”

Free car parking and plenty of it is a strong draw, particularly as more people drive to a shopping centre rather than use public transport.

He added: “While we have our anchor stores there is still a place in the mix for Poundland and other discount stores. There is not the snobbery of just buying certain brand names anymore.”

“The Sava” as it became known locally, started off as a novelty attracting shoppers from all over the south east and even French day-trippers.

Today its core customer base is nearby from the Hempstead housing estate which grew after the centre opened and from Wigmore, Lordswood and Rainham.

He added: “Naturally Bluewater had an impact, but we are local and convenient - everything a shopper would want on their doorstep.

“We are an oasis for commuters who want to escape the hustle and bustle of London.

“We came first; the housing and roads followed.”

The centre will be celebrating throughout next month looking at its past, present and future.

On Saturday, October 20 there is a full programme of events lined up in conjunction with kmfm and a giant birthday cake will be cut.

n Tell us your memories of Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, or as some refer to it as “Happy Valley”.

Email Su Button at marketing@hempsteadvalley.co.uk