County commissioners in Florida have approved a plan to build what would be the largest mall in the US.

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Canadian developer Triple Five Worldwide Group is the developer of American Dream Miami, a 6.2 million sq.ft retail and entertainment destination slated to cost US$4bn, which would make it the world’s most expensive mall ever to be built.

Due to be included in the project are an indoor ski slope, ice-climbing wall and a water park with a submarine lake, offering guests the chance to ride a plexiglass submersible.

The project is the latest example of the growing trend for retail destinations to major on entertainment and leisure rather than just shopping, as the retail sector continues to struggle to adjust to contemporary online shopping habits.