A new 1.9 million sq ft (176,516sq m) retail and leisure development has officially launched in Stratford, London - Westfield Stratford City - as a 'gateway' to the 2012 Olympic Park.

The Westfield Group's £1.8bn complex, which is one of the largest urban shopping venues in Europe, boasts a 17-screen Vue cinema and the UK's largest casino operated by Aspers. Three hotels; a 14-lane All Star Lanes bowling alley 70 places to dine are also on offer, in addition to 250 shops establishing Westfield Stratford City as a major lifestyle destination.

Davis Coffer Lyons assisted the Westfield Group in securing brands for the new complex, with dining brands on offer including Cabana; Pizza Luxe; Rhythm Kitchen; and Indi-Go. London mayor Boris Johnson said: "Westfield Stratford City has already played, and will continue to play, a crucial role in the remarkable regeneration of East London.

"Thousands of jobs for Londoners, millions in investment and one of the best shopping destinations in the world are a fantastic legacy which has been delivered years earlier than would have been possible without the 2012 Games."