Two major brands have been all but confirmed to a new retail park after the site gained permission.

It was confirmed on Friday (April 26) that Northumberland Estates has obtained planning permission for 52,000 sq ft of retail space and a 45,000 sq ft trade park within Wynyard Business Park in Stockton.

The ambitious development supports Tees Valley’s Strategic Economic Plan and the Local Industrial Strategy to deliver economic growth and job creation in the area.

The first phase of development is expected to start in May 2024 with the site set to be fully operational by May 2025.

The Northern Echo: How the retail park could lookHow the retail park could look (Image: NORTHUMBERLAND ESTATES)

The latest development from Northumberland Estates has already attracted interest from major retailers including Sainsbury’s and Burger King, according to those linked to the site.

Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Property Director, said: “We’re delighted to confirm that we’re bringing a brand new Sainsbury’s supermarket to Wynyard Business Park, representing a major investment in the region and creating new jobs. 

"We have an unbeatable combination of quality fresh food, competitive prices, innovative products, useful bright ideas and enthusiastic people, which will all help us to bring good food to more of our customers in and around Tees Valley.” 

Wynyard Business Park currently forms a commercial development.

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The 30,000 sq ft Sainsbury’s store is expected to create at least 120 jobs.

Anthony Cape, Senior Asset Manager at Northumberland Estates said: “We have seen really strong interest from businesses in the trade and retail sectors for this new development, and we hope to be in the position to confirm details of some of those occupiers in the coming months.”

The proposed development incorporates renewable energy measures within the scheme, including EV charging points and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) which will store energy from solar panels and release it when demand requires.