Yahoo News Optimism over changes at Eldon Square as two major brands cause a stir
An empty Eldon Square unit is set to get a new tenant this year - and they're welcome additions according to the ChronicleLive's comments section. A NEXT department store will be taking over the former Debenhams from November, with the unit having been vacant since 2021.
The beauty brand Sephora will also be moving in to the shopping centre this year. NEXT's Jayne Pushon said: “We are very excited to be launching a new large format store in Newcastle and look forward to welcoming more customers to Eldon Square. We are delighted to be able to introduce customers to our new home and beauty department, where we will have staff on hand to talk more about our exciting product ranges in the new store.”
Commenter KTC says “I'm actually quite excited!”, and Whitneybeyonce wrote: “Next, snore, but Sephora, yay!”. Mrsnow reckons there needs to be tweaks to unlock the potential of the new arrivals: “Well done Eldon Square. Now we need the council to sort out free parking and the nightmare that is the road system in the city.”
User Teatreeorganics feels the same: “Next, a step up from Asda, and a big step up in price from Primani. Furnishings wise you'd be better off down Matalan or Dunelm. But it's a good start. Now then, how do we get there? Fill our arms with stuff, and get home carrying it? Buses rubbish, metro even worse, and cars in Newcastle are a thing of the past."
Magpiejack wanted to see something else: “Not a new brand, NEXT already here, we need a new shopping brand in Newcastle”.
But JohnDewhirst countered: “Honestly, even the creation of 500 new jobs can't deter many on here from spouting their negativity.”
Proposals are also underway to transform vacant parts of Eldon Square in new leisure zones. The £65 million scheme would see leading leisure operators create two attractions, including an overhaul for the old Eldon Leisure centre with food and drinks venues, and activities such as an electric go karting circuit, batting nets, mini golf, bowling and virtual reality games. Commenter Binksy likes the idea: “The idea of go karting and VR gaming is promising, Manchester have something similar and a skate park too.”
On our Facebook page, readers were thinking about what brands they would rather have seen moving in. Chloe Stroud said: “Should have been a Zara, Newcastle needs one.”
Christopher George Ghazala wanted something fresh too: “Should be Harvey Nichols or Selfridges for a change.” Lynn Coyne agrees: "They should be opening something that is not already in Eldon Square.”
City Council leader Nick Kemp said: “This exciting announcement shows just how attractive Newcastle is for global retailers. It is a vote of confidence in our city centre and a statement of intent by the retail industry."
"Not only will the opening of these stores attract more visitors to our city but it will create jobs and boost our economy. We will work with partners to create more opportunities in Newcastle, that help grow an inclusive economy to benefit every resident.”
What brands do you want to see move into Eldon Square? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.
