Westfield Stratford City is a shopping centre in Stratford, London, owned by the Westfield Group. The centre opened on 13 September 2011. With a total retail floor area of 1,883,700 square feet (175,000 m2), it is one of the largest urban shopping centres in Europe. It is the 3rd largest shopping centre in the United Kingdom by retail space behind the Trafford Centre and MetroCentre. Taking the surrounding shopping area into account, it is the largest urban shopping centre in the European Union in terms of size.
Westfield Stratford City is adjacent to the London Olympic Park, East Village, Stratford Regional and Stratford International stations. The shopping centre is part of a large multi-purpose development project called Stratford City. It is promoted as contributing significantly to the local economy, with the creation of up to 10,000 permanent jobs, including 2,001 jobs going to people in the local area. However there are counter-reports of the centre having a significantly negative impact on local businesses due to the preponderance of chain stores.
Westfield Stratford City has been reported to be the first large scale use of Pavegen floor tiles to harness kinetic energy.
In January 2012, X-Factor singer Olly Murs filmed a music video for his single 'Oh My Goodness'.
In July 2012, a number of banners welcoming shoppers were found to be translated incorrectly.
The shopping centre occupies the area formerly occupied by Stratford Works and Engine Shed
Read more about Westfield Stratford City: Retail Area, Transport
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