Upmarket retail chain John Lewis has taken ownership of its £100 million store in Birmingham – marking the end of construction.

John Lewis will be the anchor tenant of the Grand Central development at Birmingham New Street station when it opens in 2015, and will be joined by over 40 high street stores and more than 20 new concept cafes and restaurants.

The retailer is investing a total of £35 million to launch the new 250,000 sq ft shop, which will be one of the largest outside London, stocking more than 350,000 products and creating 650 jobs.

Jeremy Collins, property director, John Lewis, said: “The handover is a significant milestone for John Lewis Birmingham. We have held an ambition to open in the city for many years.

“Our aspiration is for John Lewis Birmingham to become the cornerstone of wider regeneration in the south side of the city centre and to deliver a legacy of real quality and value to the area.

“We’re looking forward to becoming part of the local community.”

David Higgins, outgoing chief executive, Network Rail said: “The redevelopment of Birmingham New Street station will transform the experience for the millions of passengers who use the station every year and allow it to handle the ever increasing number of people who choose to travel by train.

“This project is also a great example of how investment in our transport infrastructure can boost the economy. The New Street project will improve the city centre environment in Birmingham, creating new public space to stimulate regeneration and create up to one thousand new jobs for local people.”

Sir Albert Bore, leader, Birmingham City Council, added: “I am delighted to welcome John Lewis to Birmingham in 2015, who along with the other retailers, cafes and restaurants at Grand Central will complement and enhance the existing shopping and leisure offer we have in Birmingham.”