Former TJ Hughes site let to 99p Stores

The Co-operative Estates has completed the letting of part of the former TJ Hughes department store on Sankey Street, Warrington, to 99p Stores.

The discount retailer has signed a 10-year lease for 18,500 sq ft at £150,000 a year.

As part of the remodelling of the building, two additional units have also been created – a second retail unit of 16,500 sq ft, plus a first floor retail leisure space providing up to 28,000 sq ft. Both units remain empty.

The Co-operative Group operated the four-storey building until 1997 when it was let to TJ Hughes, but that business ceased trading 18 months ago.

Geoff Player, director of commercial & investment property at The Co-operative Estates, said: "Trading on Sankey Street and nearby Bridge Street has suffered in recent years, but the 99p Stores transaction – and the introduction of other major retailers such as Primark in to the town centre – is rejuvenating this part of Warrington and providing a significant boost for further lettings."

Tushingham Moore and Sanderson Weatherall acted for The Co-operative Estates.