Westfield’s new Eat Central area at the Merry Hill Shopping centre, has been in the planning stages for more than two years.

Nandos, Hey Potato, KFC and Nineteen Ten Mexican Kitchen have signed up to be part of the new development, which will comprise 16 food outlets and three restaurants with open plan kitchens and grills.

Neil Huntington, development director for Westfield, said: “We are delighted to announce the project and these signings. Interest in the scheme has been solid and we expect to announce more names very soon.

“The success of the dining offers at Westfield Derby and Westfield London show the potential to evolve the traditional ‘food court’ model. At Merry Hill we plan to attract a fascinating mix of contemporary and traditional operators, combining tastes from around the world to make sure there is something for everyone.”

The restaurants will face a new centre entrance and car park – which will be themed with street-side dining and landscaping.