There has been a surge in the number of people using Bradford's Kirkgate Shopping Centre since Primark opened its store.

Early indications show the discount clothing chain's introduction to the shopping centre ten days ago has boosted city centre retail.

Footfall, the retail industry's phrase for the number of shoppers, in the Kirkgate has increased by 17 per cent, while the number of vehicles using the centre's car park is up 35 per cent, according to figures from the first five days after the shop opened on September 13.

Kirkgate Centre bosses say the figures suggest more people are travelling from further afield to shop at the centre, although they cautioned that it was too early to speak about a definite trend.

About 100 people queued outside on the opening day to be among the first to shop at the store, which has undergone a £14 million refit following Primark's acquisition of 120 Littlewoods stores in July last year.

Between September 13 and September 17, the Kirkgate Centre's car park was used by more than 8,000 vehicles - compared to about 6,000 in the same period the previous week.

Meanwhile, more than 60,000 people visited the Kirkgate on Saturday, September 16 - Primark's first weekend of trading - compared to an average of about 50,000.

Catherine Riley, manager of the Kirkgate Centre, said: "That Saturday was just like Christmas - it was so busy.

"We have seen a big jump, which is exactly what we were expecting.

"People were very excited when they opened. There's something for everybody at that store.

"More people are coming to the centre, so that benefits everyone. The traders we spoke to last weekend said trade was excellent.

"We have seen 35 per cent more vehicles coming into the car park. We may be seeing people travelling that little bit further, but that's just an initial reaction."

Val Summerscales, of Bradford Chamber of Trade, said: "These figures are very encouraging and it justifies our view that Primark would be a very welcome addition to Bradford's shopping offer.

"Bringing increased footfall to Bradford means everyone can take advantage of it."

She said the Primark store could act as a catalyst to bring extra trade to the city.

The 233 employees at the new Primark store include 11 former Littlewoods staff.

Councillor Andrew Mallinson, Bradford Council's executive member for regeneration, said: "Increased footfall and trade, not just for Primark but for other traders around, is extremely good news. It shows they have already got a good foothold in the city centre and we wish them continued success."

e-mail: will.kilner@bradford.newsquest.co.uk