Cardiff in shopping's 'premier league'

Cardiff is still one of the best cities to shop in

Cardiff is still one of Britain's best shopping cities, according to a new survey.

The poll by retail industry researcher Experian places the capital in ninth spot, the same result as last year.

Experian examined the impact of new shopping schemes on traditional UK shopping centres. Cardiff maintained its high position because it is relatively unaffected by out-of-town developments.

Recently, the city's shopping centre has been boosted by a multi-million pound revamp of the Capitol shopping centre and a new Sainsbury's store opposite.

The city leads the way in "lifestyle" shopping

The ongoing developments of Cardiff Bay are also expected to add to the city's attraction.

According to the Experian survey, the top three UK retail centres are in London's West End, Glasgow and Nottingham.

Retail expert Paul Tarling of property consultants King Sturge said: "Cardiff is in the premier league for UK shopping because it is a cosmopolitan city which provides a quality environment.

"In the next 12 to 18 months we expect the city to develop a reputation for "lifestyle" shopping, which has more to do with leisure and entertainment than essential needs," he said.

"The city has a cafe society, which lends itself to this style of shopping."