The Glass Works – the £180m retail and leisure scheme led by Barnsley Council alongside development manager Queensberry – has announced the signing of anothermajor national retailer. TK Maxx has committed to Barnsley by taking a new store in the development, which is on schedule for completion next summer.
Despite the ongoing fallout from the coronavirus pandemic, the popular high street retailer has signed a 15-year lease and will take a 21,951sqft, two-floor unit opposite Cineworld . This is the final Mid-Size Unit) remaining in the scheme, following lettings to NEXT, Sports Direct (with fashion arm USC) and the already open JD Sports demonstrating retailer confidence in Barnsley’s trading potential.
The signing of TK Maxx comes as Barnsley town centre continues to reopen following the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions. Non-essential retailers, including those in the town’s famous market, have now reopened as Barnsley begins its job-led economic recovery.
Alex Hyams, Leasing Manager for Queensberry added:
“We’re delighted to secure TK Maxx for The Glass Works. It is a tremendous addition to the scheme and marks a milestone – we’ve now let all three MSUs ahead of opening next year.”
“At a generally difficult time TK Maxx committing to a store in a prime retail position illustrates the strength of the scheme, which already has fantastic leisure, retail and F&B operators secured. We’re committed to attracting more exciting offers to the town despite the issues faced by the wider economy, and we’ll be working hard alongside Barnsley Council to achieve this over the months ahead.”
Cineworld also reiterated their commitment to The Glass Works amongst speculation on their future.
Kevin Frost, Property Director at Cineworld UK, commented:
“We’re excited to be bringing Cineworld to The Glass Works. The development is changing the face of Barnsley town centre and really lends itself to one of our next generation multiplex cinemas – and that is clear from the work that has been completed on site so far.”
“Cineworld Barnsley will boast 13 screens with over 2,000 seats, including a full height 450 seat Super Screen and state-of-the-art 4DX screen. It will also feature the very latest digital surround sound systems with curved wall to wall, floor to ceiling screens, stadia seating and plenty of leg room. The work on site is progressing well and we can’t wait to open next year.”
