STEEL frames loomed large over King Street this week as more companies decided to invest in Knutsford.

Developer Philip Hughes said he expected to clinch deals with at least four businesses.

"The first three or four are due to sign next week," he said.

"We've had a couple of other good retailers show interest so if we can get them in we will have no problem filling the final three shops."

Several big names are believed to have shown interest in the £10million Royal George development.

Yesterday the Knutsford Guardian called Marks and Spencer's PR company, but no one could confirm if they were still interested in Knutsford.

Over the past week shoppers have seen red steel frames erected between the former historic hotel and neighbouring Hallmark card shop.

A crane has been lifting heavy pieces of materials around the site as lorries deliver steel from a site in Warrington.

"It has got quite busy, but it does not appear to have caused any disruption," said Mr Hughes.

Once the first set of steelwork is complete, work will start on Knutsford's first underground car park.

When it is completed next year, Regent Street will have 10 shops, two restaurants, apartments and offices.