Department store for old Woolies site in Southend High Street? (From Southend Standard)

Department store for old Woolies site in Southend High Street?

11:40am Monday 8th February 2010

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THE empty Woolworths store in Southend town centre could become a discount department store.

TJ Hughes, which began life in Liverpool, is understood to have put in an offer on the High Street building.

The company, which has more than 50 branches, offers discounts on famous brands in fashion and home, and also sells toys and electrical equipment.

It was established in 1912 and the nearest store is in Romford.

The former Woolworths building, at 29-35 High Street, has been vacant since December 2008 after Woolies, which owned more than 800 stores across the country, ran up massive debts and closed all its outlets.

Now after more than a year with a “for sale” sign above its doors, it looks likely the huge shop will be occupied.

London-based agents Douglas Stevens are responsible for selling the store.

A spokesman there confirmed it was under offer, but refused to disclose any further details. Its website shows the building under offer and has removed the rent value.

Helen King, at TJ Hughes head office, said she could not confirm the company’s plans, but added there would be news about the Southend store soon.

Southend’s councillor responsible for regeneration, Derek Jarvis, said: “I’m pleased to hear things appear to be moving along. No-one likes to see empty premises like that on our High Street.

“A number of things have been looked at since it’s been empty, from splitting the shop into smaller units to a multi-purpose use, but all that requires people with initiative and money to come forward.

“I await the outcome of the latest moves.

“Our High Street is a little more fortunate than most seaside towns and high streets across the country, but it is still sad to see empty units.

“Activity is going on to try to shift these shops, with the agents, town centre manager and town centre partnership all working on it.

“Filling more of these empty shops will enhance the whole image of the town.

“I’m fairly confident the situation will improve as confidence levels grow as we come out of the recession.”

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