Questions over future use of Wilko unit in Chester-le-Street

The big-name brand, which collapsed last year, leaving stores across the UK to close and thousands of jobs lost in the process, including countless stores and jobs across the region. 

The discount hardware and furnishings chain shut 400 UK stores after tumbling into administration in August 2022.

Wilko in Chester-Le-Street (Image: BILLY ATKINSON)

The family-owned business hired administrators from PwC after it came under pressure from weak consumer spending and debts to suppliers.

PwC then held talks with interested firms but was unable to secure a rescue deal for the whole firm, with a potential takeover by HMV owner Doug Putman collapsing.

Deals were agreed to sell up to 71 stores to Poundland and to sell up to 51 shops to fellow rival discounter B&M.

The frontage of the old Wilko store in Chester-Le-Street (Image: BILLY ATKINSON)

Despite several stores in the North East being sold to Poundland and B&M, one that wasn't is the one on Osborne Road in Chester-le-Street. 

Following its closure on September 26, the County Durham store has sat empty - with images of an eerie-looking empty unit being released.

The 'let agreed' sign on the building (Image: BILLY ATKINSON)

However, on Monday (January 29), more images were released from Northern Echo camera club member Billy Atkinson - showing that the store now has a 'let agreed' sign hanging above it. 

While the Wilko signs are still up on the building, it's got people talking in Chester-le-Street, with people excited to see what it will be next. 

The 'let agreed' sign, from estate agent Bradley Hall, doesn't appear online on any listing - and Companies House hasn't yet got any business listed at the old Wilko address. 

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device, for just £3 for three months! Click here

Most read:

• Pupils at 'most affected' RAAC school in Durham 'feel abandoned'
• County Durham pupils taught in Portakabins during RAAC 'chaos'
• Exams set to be impacted by RAAC disruption at St Leonard's, Durham

But that hasn't stopped people from suggesting what the building might be in the future, with other big-name brands being pinged around, while some have suggested it could become a restaurant. 

Despite the chatter in the community - no one has been officially linked to the building yet.

Bradley Hall has been contacted for comment or any information linking the building with any potential new owners.