Industry information specialist Glenigan said the race is between Mace, Brookfield Multiplex and Sir Robert Mcalpine.

Sources at developer The Bracknell Regeneration Partnership said the main contract award was “imminent” for the major development of the Northern Retail Quarter.

The new retail, leisure and residential scheme will host tenants including Fenwick, Marks & Spencer, Primark, Waitrose and a 12 screen Cineworld multiplex with opening scheduled for Spring 2017.

The new development in the north of Bracknell Town Centre will comprise a total of 580,000 sq ft of new retail and leisure space, supported by a 1,300 space multi-storey car park and landscaped public spaces.

In addition, Eagle House, a vacant eight-storey office block, will be converted to a 92 unit residential scheme.

Over 53% of the scheme has already been pre-let.