A "new chapter" has begun for the "cornerstone of Darlington’s retail landscape" as House of Fraser agrees a deal to stay in the historic High Row Binns building.
Parker Barras today (November 11) confirmed that the chain had signed on the dotted line to stay in the town centre, weeks after the building was snapped up by a new owner.
Closing down signs were taken down from around the building on Monday morning, following weeks of work behind the scenes to agree terms with the Frasers Group-owned firm.
Now, Darlington Council deputy leader Chris McEwan has spoken out on the news, saying he is "thrilled" that a deal has been secured and that it represents a "vital boost to our community and local economy".
He told The Northern Echo: "I'm thrilled to welcome the news that a deal has been confirmed to secure the future of Binns.
"This iconic store has been a cherished part of our town’s heritage, and these latest developments represent a vital boost to our community and local economy.
"With this new chapter, we look forward to seeing Binns continue to flourish in these changing times, and long may it stand as a cornerstone of Darlington’s retail landscape."
Lola McEvoy, MP for Darlington, also voiced her happiness at the news: “I’m really pleased to hear that the iconic Binns building will continue to serve shoppers in our fantastic town centre.
"It is an important part of our history - I remember window shopping in there as a little girl.”
"I would be happy to support in any way I can to ensure it remains open for business and would be keen to meet with the new owners in the near future to hear of their plans.”
Meanwhile, Jonathan Dulston, leader of the opposition at the council, said: "I am absolutely delighted that we have a positive outcome for the future of Binns in Darlington.
"I will continue to push the council to support local businesses and encourage footfall to our town centre."
Details regarding the agreed terms remain unknown, with House of Fraser's parent group Frasers still yet to comment on the news.
Parker Barras said: "Parker Barras are pleased to announce we have agreed a deal with House of Fraser to remain in the Darlington store and the closing down posters are now been removed!"
House of Fraser was just weeks away from closing for good when the signs were taken down, with the firm previously announcing it would be shutting after the previous landlord made the decision to terminate its lease.
Recommended reading:
- House of Fraser 'agrees terms' to remain in Darlington Binns
- House of Fraser 'planned to stay in Darlington for foreseeable future'
- Closing down signs taken down at Darlington House of Fraser
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The building's new owner met with Darlington Council officers last month to discuss future plans for the building, with The Echo previously reporting that terms had been agreed.
John Taylor, director of Parker Barras and agent for the new owner, previously said that positive discussions with House of Fraser were happening at pace to finalise the intricate details.
Frasers Group said: "We’re pleased to confirm that House of Fraser Darlington will remain open and is operating business as usual. We’re looking forward to continuing to welcome our valued customers to this location. "
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