SHOPPERS in Birkenhead have been promised bigger and better shops as a result of the merger of The Grange and The Pyramids shopping centres.

Bosses behind the new venture claim it will play an important part in the redevelopment of Birkenhead and will bring 'more big name retailers to our doorstep.'

Norma Clark, centre manager at the Grange, said: "We will be working to ensure that Birkenhead becomes the major shopping destination for the residents of Wirral. The merging of the two centres is great news for Birkenhead and will bring significant investment and employment to our town."

The Agora Shopping Centres Fund - a company co-owned by Warner Estates and the Royal Bank of Scotland - purchased the Grange for £85m last month.

The company also owns the Pyramids Shopping Centre, which it bought last year.

Manangement behind the merger said the strategy to unite the two centres would allow continued development of retail outlets in the town.

They said that many big name retailers were seeking a presence on Wirral but had found space constraints were a barrier.

Mel Glasby, centre director for The Pyramids Shopping Centre, said: "This is a very exciting time for Birkenhead and we're proud to have such an important part in the redevelopment of Wirral's main shopping area.

"The merging of the two centres will mean a great future for Birkenhead and we are looking forward to seeing many more big name retailers on our doorstep."

"The merging of the Pyramids and the Grange will mean extending our current working relationship and we're looking forward to a successful future together