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TJ Hughes given Blackpool welcome
BLACKPOOL retailers believe the re-opening of one of the town centre's largest empty shops will bring other stores to the resort.
Retail giant TJ Hughes is moving into the former Woolworths store on Bank Hey Street in March.
Not only will it create more than 100 jobs but could act as a catalyst for a bumper year at the tills, according to leading Blackpool traders.
Today, retailers in the resort said TJ Hughes was the right store to take over Woolworths, which became one of the highest profile companies to fold in the recession.
Graham Dickinson, manager at Debenhams, said: "I think it's fantastic and adds something different to the high street. To take over one of Blackpool's biggest units is a challenge but I think TJ Hughes will be the perfect match for it.
"It's a prime spot for any retailer so I can see why there was so much interest. It will bring more people into Blackpool."
John Holt, a director of the Blackpool BID team and manager of Houndshill Shopping Centre, said: "It would have been my first choice to fill what has been a big puller for shoppers in Blackpool.
"TJ Hughes has the pulling power to bring more people to the resort and encourage other stores to see what the town has to offer. It is a great thing for the town."
Sarah McConville, owner of Blueberries on Topping Street and chairman of the street's steering group, said: "The store sells everything and I am sure it has what the shopper in Blackpool needs.
"It has a broad reach and will keep people in the town. To have the Woolworths building full again is superb for the town centre."
And Hugh Evans, director of policy for the North West Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, based in Blackpool, added: "What great news for Blackpool. Securing a retailer of TJ Hughes' status sends out the message that Blackpool can attract the best, even in the current economic climate.
"We would hope this news will now act as a catalyst for future investment."
The 35,000 sq ft landmark building is undergoing a major facelift and staff are being recruited from the local area in time for its grand opening in March.
Its opening ends months of speculation for the store, which closed exactly 12 months ago and became a gaping hole in Blackpool's main high street.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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