As yet another top fashion store prepares to open in York next week, the city is rapidly becoming the "Bond Street of the North."

The description comes from Adam Sinclair, chairman of the York Business Pride campaign, as major Bond Street fashion house Jigsaw prepares to open its 42nd store on Thursday in what was the former Edinburgh Woollen Mill in a grade 2 listed building in Stonegate

Mr Sinclair believes that not only has the campaign by York businesses to beautify the city set the scene for a top shop scramble, but also indicates what can happen now that the "blight" of the Coppergate retail scheme has been lifted.

Jigsaw's presence marks the end of a year-long search for suitable premises in the city by the chain which sells designer women's wear, children's clothes and accessories. Its retail director, Karen Fuller, was said to be "knocked out" by her first visit to York.

Its arrival, along with 12 jobs, comes as plans are being formulated to open a second new Sarah Coggles in Low Petergate in June; and as cosmetic chain Molton Brown - also with a Bond Street base - prepares to trade on the site of the former Cooplands Baker's shop in Davygate.

It also follows the recent announcement that Zara and H & M fashion stores, both with Bond Street connections, are coming to the new development in Spurriergate

Mr Sinclair who, as chairman of the York Chamber of Trade and proprietor of Mulberry Hall glassware specialists in Stonegate, steadfastly opposed the Coppergate scheme, said: "We are becoming the Bond Street of the North.

"It is a sign that we are getting over the planning blight, but it also indicates that York Pride is creating the kind of culture that will attract top name retailers.

"It gives the lie to the view that we need a massive new shopping centre to attract new names to the city."

Updated: 10:03 Friday, May 14, 2004