Dozens of shops have been shuttered in Slough town centre despite claims that there is still "active interest" from prospective tenants.

In January, British Land started the first phase of its plans to redevelop Queensmere Shopping Centre, with the western side closing to the public.

The closure of one of the main entrances closest to The Curve and other amenities at Wellington Street and Mackenzie Street has given some the impression that the shopping centre, along with the Observatory counterpart, is closed.

In April, the Observer spoke to businesses in the shopping centre about their concerns and footfall.

READ MORE: 'We're still here': Local businesses plea to not be forgotten amid development

The general consensus was that stores were worried the public was forgetting about them.

Tameena Zaman, assistant manager at Shoe City previously said: "A lot of people have thought the whole shopping centre has closed down even though they have made announcements that it is a part closure."

A slump in footfall and a move to online shopping, are just some of the reasons businesses are blaming for the rate of shops being closed.

READ MORE: 'If Primark leaves we're finished' - Concern mounts over Slough's future

Walking through the centre old signs for big chains such as Debenhams, Marks and Spencers and now Iceland can be seen whited out.

In June Iceland announced its move onto the High Street, citing shopping habits and an expiring lease as its reason.

READ MORE: Slough: Iceland to leave Queensmere Shopping Centre

British Land, who acts as an asset manager and development manager on behalf of the owners, said:

"As you will be aware, the western end of Queensmere where footfall and trade was low, and had significant vacancy, was closed in January this year.

"The majority of retailers were retained and relocated into a consolidated centre which has had the anticipated impact of improving vibrancy in the retained area.

"Queensmere has some vacant units, however we have active interest from potential occupiers and we will continue to let these stores on a short-term basis.

"For the Observatory we continue to relocate key and the most desired retailers to provide them with long-term homes within the centre.

"A good example of this is JD Sports who we recently moved from the high street into the centre."

British Land hope that if given planning permission, demolition could start late this year.

The plans for the redevelopment set out how a mixed-use flexible space will be built in Queensmere's place, comprising of shops, bars and restaurants, financial services, fitness facilities, medical services, education uses and community space.

Above which will be a mix of one, two and three bedroom properties.

British Land added: "Queensmere Shopping Centre has a resolution to grant planning permission to redevelop into a modern, residential-led town centre with public realm, retail and leisure designed for Slough residents and visitors in mind."