A second major store has signed up as a tenant in the new Rawson Quarter shopping centre in the heart of Bradford.

And it was also announced today the shopping development had been bought by a Manchester company which aims to have it completed by next November.

The Modus group has signed up to a £12 million deal to take over the centre, build and then operate it.

Wilkinson's has already signed up as a major tenant and is followed this week by B&M Retail Ltd based in Blackpool.

The two will bring a total of about 200 jobs but there will also be smaller shops, bars restaurants and an Asian market included in the scheme.

And Modus will bring in its subsidiary Shoppertainment to provide all-year entertainment for families to encourage them to browse, shop and stay.

The city centre master plan drawn up by international architect Will Alsop sees the Rawson Quarter playing a major part in the city's rebirth.

The plan says it should link with Kirkgate and Queensgate creating a "unique and cohesive" route through an "alternative shopping offer".

The Modus group owns and controls £400 million worth of shopping complexes mainly in the North. B&M Retail Ltd has a £90 million a year turnover and 20 shops. About 55 full and part- time staff are expected to be employed in the store.

The company has signed up for a 10,000 sq ft store - about half of it food and the rest toys and hardware.

Company chief executive Stuart Greenwood, who lives in Burley Woodhead, said: "We have been looking for a site in Bradford for some time. We think it is the right time to come here."

Modus managing director Brendan Flood said the company was well known in the North of England and the Skopos Mill at Batley was one of their acquisitions.

He added: "We are committed to the Rawson Quarter scheme and are familiar with both main tenants."

Mr Flood said contractors Stainforth would start building the complex next month and the scheme was expected to be completed in November next year.

Rawson Quarter Ltd the original developers who sold the scheme will remain as consultants .

Mr Flood said a full calendar of entertainment including acts like magicians was likely to be provided and there would be special school-holiday attractions.

Bradford Council's executive member for corporate affairs and the economy Councillor Simon Cooke said: "This is a significant development for the city and I welcome this step towards its completion."

Traders were moved out of Rawson Market in 1996 and told they could go back after a £6 million revamp. But the scheme never materialised despite bitter political rows and they now share the nearby Oastler shopping centre with John Street market tenants.