PLANNING approval has been granted to build a £7m shopping centre on derelict land in Thamesmead.

Cannon Shopping Park will be built on an unused brownfield site in Central Way, previously owned by the Greater London Council.

Construction is expected to start in the spring with completion in January 2003.

Five of the six units in the 63,550 sq ft centre have already been let to home and garden specialist Wilkinson's, Argos, Peacocks, Brantano and KFC.

The park is being built by developers AWG Developments Ltd.

Senior development manager of AWD Developments Josh Roberts said: "This is a much needed development for Thamesmead.

"Without doubt this scheme will bring enormous benefits to the area by broadening the style of shopping and product range available to local residents. We have worked very closely with the local authority to create a centre which will be sympathetic to its surroundings and the needs of local residents."