Dockyard is a major destination for shops - but any growth will not affect Hamilton, according to a retail expert at the Chamber of Commerce.

Kristi Grayston, co-chair of the Chamber's retail division, does not believe the arrival of mega cruise ships in the West End will mean the death of retail in Hamilton.

West End Development Corporation (Wedco) boss Andrew Dias said they are in talks with major department stores to open or expand shops in Dockyard.

Mr. Dias said: "We are talking to shops to remodel existing buildings here and open stores. We are looking to expand our retail sector to include major department stores.

"Our philosophy is that we want people to work, live and play here. We want to provide a place where you can shop, eat and walk around, for visitors and locals."

Mrs. Grayston, who owns Pulp and Circumstance, said she opened a branch in Dockyard two years ago because she believed the historic town was becoming more popular.

"I believe it is going to become, and is on its way to becoming, a destination for locals and visitors," she said.

"It's an up-and-coming place, the nightlife is great and there is lots to do. I think more and more locals are going there and bringing visitors.

"It's becoming a destination you go to on the weekend."

Since opening in Dockyard her business has grown, she said.

Thousands more tourists are expected to descend on Dockyard in the coming years when two mega cruise ships will berth there, bringing with them approximately 8,000 people. Despite this influx of shoppers Mrs. Grayston said she did not expect to see major Front Street vendors packing up and moving West.

"I think some businesses in the city, which cater to cruise ships, may have to think about if Hamilton is still the right place for them but most shops will remain in the city," she said.

"The Chamber believes that no matter how many cruise ships come into Dockyard, Hamilton will remain the retail centre.

"It is the capital and people will still visit it."

Front Street retailors would not comment on any plans to open stores in Dockyard yesterday.