TJ Hughes says it is “exploring the option of a return” to Middlesbrough after it was revealed that the firm was eyeing up a new store in the town. 

The Northern Echo reported this week how the discount chain is poised to return to the town at an undisclosed location within the Cleveland Centre. 

The news came three years after bosses permanently closed its store at Captain Cook Square to make way for the redevelopment of the complex. 

While a spokesperson for the firm was unable to confirm any details at this stage, they said that TJ Hughes has a “great affiliation with Middlesbrough and its community” and that they were “exploring the option of a return to the town”. 

The Cleveland Centre in Middlesbrough and (inset) the town's former TJ Hughes storeThe Cleveland Centre in Middlesbrough and (inset) the town's former TJ Hughes store (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

It is understood that the opening date for TJ Hughes' new store in Middlesbrough would be between now and the end of the year. 

As previously reported, TJ Hughes said it was "extremely saddened" when announcing the closure of its Middlesbrough store in 2021. 

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Shutters were pulled down for the final time on Saturday, June 12, after Middlesbrough Council purchased Captain Cook Square ahead of its regeneration scheme. 

The former TJ Hughes site has since been transformed into go-karting and entertainment venue Level X, which opened last year. 

It has since been joined by American chain Wendy's, Fun Shack soft play centre and Inflatespace inflatable theme park, and stylish new restaurant Bazaar.