Exciting plans to completely revamp a popular shopping centre have been unveiled.

Landsec has given the first glimpse of its vision to transform Freeport in Braintree as it seeks to give the outlet a complete facelift in a bid to attract more shoppers.

The real estate investment company bought the shopping village in May 2017 for an estimated £340million and informed the Times back in January that it would look to make Freeport “one of the best” in the UK.

Several planning applications have now been submitted to Braintree Council as Landsec looks to get the green light to begin work on making necessary improvements.

The plans include the extension of the northern car park, which will provide 400 more spaces, and the creation of three new retail units, a visitors centre and new management suite.

One of the new retail units is expected to be filled by Polo Ralph Lauren, leading to the creation of 20 new jobs.

Further changes will be made to the landscaping throughout the shopping centre, including the middle mall area which will be transformed to create a more welcoming experience.

The biggest change will see the north entrance to the shopping village completely demolished and a new contemporary barn style facade built in its place.

Further improvements will be made to shop fronts, with units having either a ‘Modern Openings’ or ‘London Mews’ theme.

Despite submitting applications, Landsec remains tight-lipped on any further plans and says it will make further announcements on the revamp at a later date.

Centre manager Josef O’Sullivan said: “We are constantly working to ensure our customers have the best possible outlet shopping experience at Freeport Braintree.

“As part of this, we look forward to sharing exciting plans to improve the centre in the New Year.”

It is hoped the improvements being made to Freeport will attract new retailers to the area, as well as customers.

American food chain Five Guys is one firm which plans to open a branch near to the shopping village in the new year.

Company bosses are in discussions with Braintree Council over the plans and hope its application for a license will be approved in the coming weeks.