The new-look Friary Centre opens just in time for Christmas

Last Thursday the Friary Centre reopened in Guildford after nearly a year's worth of redevelopment. There's still one or two shops that need to be finished but the majority of it is done and it looks cleaner and more stylish. It's a world away from its past incarnation.

Clothes

Hollister is located where the old cafe used to be on the ground floor and if you went last Thursday you may well have been greeted by two half-naked men. That probably won't scare off any customers though. Topman/Topshop stay where they are but they are now joined by the likes of Republic and River Island, the latter of which has moved from the High Street.

Household goods

A lot of people have been anticipating the launch of Urban Outfitters and in that store is a variety of goods and gifts. Plus it has a swanky window that sees out into the town centre. Muji is also likely to be a big draw.

Food court

The upper food court has also had a bit of a makeover. McDonalds stays but they are joined by joined by a couple of new additions including Bamboo Basket.

What do you make of the new Friary Centre? Do you like the improvements? Are you worried that the arrival of bigger chains could be a worry for local stores? Let us know your thoughts with a comment.