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It was the first experiment in this style of shopping experience in the UK when it opened in 1976 and was initially constructed in an I shape, with the two largest stores being placed at each end. Subsequent expansion starting in 1995 saw the open parking areas to the north replaced by further shops and multi-storey parking giving the present T shape. Although small by the standards of more recent shopping complexes such as Meadowhall, Bluewater or the Metro Centre in Gateshead it suffers from site area limitations having been built within the conurbation rather than 'out of town'.
On 5 January 2004, the local Council approved a "Development Framework" plan to expand Brent Cross into adjacent land formerly used for offices and to regenerate the surrounding area. The plans are jointly promoted by the Greater London AuthorityThe Greater London Authority GLA administers the 1579 sq. miles) of Greater London, covering the 32 London boroughs and the City of London. Entering on its functions on July 3, 2000, the authority consists of an elected Mayor and 25-member Assembly. The p and Barnet Council.
The nearest station is on the Northern LineThe Northern Line is a deep-level tube line of the London Underground, coloured black on the Tube map. With two routes through the central area and two to the north, it is one of the more complicated lines on the system. Stations High Barnet branch High B and was renamed from Brent to Brent Cross tube stationStation on the Northern Line, Edgware branch, in Zone 3, between Hendon Central tube station and Golders Green tube station. Opened as Brent 19 November 1923, and renamed 20 July 1976. The shopping centre of the same name is some distance away. London Und when the centre opened; however, despite their names, neither are located in the London Borough of BrentThe London Borough of Brent is a London borough in north west London which is surrounded by other boroughs: Harrow to the northwest, Barnet to the northeast, Camden to the east and Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster to the, and thus, is quite a walk from the station