SOUTHAMPTON today took its place among Europe's shopping elite.

The £295million WestQuay shopping complex was opened this morning - bringing a massive boost to the local economy.

For the first time since the city was bombarded by German air raids in the Second World War, its potential as a thriving centre dominating the South Coast looks set to be fulfilled.

Thousands of visitors were expected to flock to the mall today after the doors were flung open at 8am.

City mayor Peter Wakeford was cutting the ribbon moments before the shops rolled up their shutters at 9.30am.

Civic chiefs and WestQuay bosses expect the milestone occasion to spark a rejuvenation in fortunes by attracting millions of extra visitors and the creation of thousands of new jobs.

By 11am 17,500 shoppers had passed through the doors, with 1,500 cars parked-up.

City council leader June Bridle said: "This is a very special day for the city and for the whole Southampton region. Many years of planning and dedicated work have gone into making this development the success that we know it is going to be."

WestQuay asset manager Vanessa Forster said: "The centre will be the region's premier shopping destination with a retail mix unmatched anywhere else in the area.''

By 11am today more than 17,500 shoppers had taken a look at the new complex

Spotlight on WestQuay - see pages 2,6,7,8,9 of tonight's Daily Echo

Converted for the new archive on 25 January 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.