Laing O'Rourke has been named as the preferred contractor to lead the £700 million redevelopment of Brent Cross shopping centre in London.

The company has been appointed under a pre-construction services agreement as part of a two-stage tender process for the main construction works of the scheme, which aims to double the size of the existing centre to two million sq ft of retail and leisure space.

Designed by architects Callison RTKL and Chapman Taylor, features include up to 150 new retail stores and 50 new restaurants, a modern leisure/cinema offer, hotel accommodation and improved public spaces including a new town square. In addition, the plans feature a relocated and enlarged bus station, as well as improved transport and highways infrastructure.

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At its peak, the project's workforce will be around 1,200 people. The delivery partners have agreed a work experience, apprenticeships and graduate development intake that will make Brent Cross an industry training ground, while also incorporating targets for local labour and supplier engagement.

Laing O'Rourke will now work with Hammerson and Standard Life Investments to finalise the design and procurement of the project. Work is expected to start on site in 2018.

James Stevens, Head of UK Developments, Standard Life Investments said: "This is a really important step for the project. We're delighted to welcome Laing O'Rourke to the team. They share our vision for delivering a scheme of the highest possible quality at Brent Cross London."

Liam Cummins, Head of UK Building for Laing O'Rourke, said: "Laing O'Rourke has the ability to drive certainty into the delivery programme through in-house technical expertise and procurement capacity, our integrated supply chain and advanced digital engineering and offsite manufacturing. The project is in total alignment with our 2025 mission to be the recognised leader of innovation and excellence in the construction industry.

"We will collaboratively define - then deliver - success for our clients, partners and the wider community on Brent Cross, undoubtedly one of London's most exciting and anticipated retail regenerations."

(LM/MH)