"Non-traditional" options are set to be considered as Lakeside looks at ways to continue as a thriving shopping centre following the closure of House of Fraser.

On Wednesday it was announced the major retailer would close its Lakeside base - one of the largest stores at the shopping centre.

Now Lakeside owners have stated they are looking at alternative options and non-traditional shopping centre uses.

The shopping centre also insisted a number of exciting new brands are in negotiation to open stores. 

A spokesman for intu, the company that owns the centre, said: “We have been advised the House of Fraser at intu Lakeside will be closing next year as part of their national stores review.

“We have had a number of meetings with SportsDirect to try to agree terms.

“While we cannot discuss the detail, we have been unable to reach an agreement.

“There’s a lot going on at the centre and our plans mean that we have a number of exciting new brands currently in negotiations to take their first stores at intu Lakeside whilst others are looking at their existing stores to make sure they are making the most of their presence in the centre.

“We’re sure that this investment will create new jobs.

“We also believe there is a real opportunity to reuse this space for new and exciting alternatives.

“We have a strong track record of doing just that and have some great ideas on the table including other big retail brands but also non-traditional shopping centre uses.

“Our teams continually look at options that will create the right mix of retail and leisure to meet the needs of our customers, giving them a great experience and even more reasons to smile.”