Poundland is allowed to stay open at centre:mk in Milton Keynes

M&S will also be open, but only for the Food Hall section.

Specsavers opticians will remain open but for essential and urgent cases only

The other stores are Boots, Superdrug, Holland and Barrett, Coventry Building Society, TSB, Metro Bank, Nationwide and Halifax.

A centre:mk spokesman said: “As a town centre we provide access to a number of essential services which are in support of the Governments current strategy.

“We would stress that visitors must do so safely, washing their hands regularly, following social distancing guidance while accessing these services and supporting stores that have also put these measures in place."

The spokesman added: "“This situation is changing rapidly and we would recommend people continue to check our social media channels and message us with any specific questions.”

The centre will close at 6pm each day from .Monday to Saturday. Exterior entrances directly in to essential stores that choose to remain open beyond 6pm will still be accessible.

The adjoining intu centre is also closed, apart from its three banks.