Houndshill Shopping Centre secures new anchor tenant

Blackpool Council has announced that Frasers Group is to replace Debenhams as the anchor tenant of Houndshill Shopping Centre.

Debenhams last traded from the space in 2021 after its parent company went into administration and its new owners, boohoo, converted it into an online-only operation.

The space will now be refurbished over the coming months before opening as a Frasers. The group will also open Sports Direct and Flannels shops in the centre.

James France, head of property at Frasers Group, said: “The confirmation of Frasers Blackpool marks an exciting time for the group as we continue to expand our store portfolio across the UK & Europe. The store will bring an aspirational lifestyle proposition to the town as we continue to demonstrate our commitment to physical retail and opening leading shopping destinations in key regional markets outside of major cities.”

Blackpool Council acquired the shopping centre in 2019 and is in the process of redeveloping it as a catalyst for town centre regeneration and as a key part of its strategy to aid the town’s post-pandemic recovery.

Construction of a second phase including an IMAX and multi-screen cinema, restaurant and new Wilko store, are already underway and are also due to open next year. When completed, the extension is expected to create more than 100 new jobs and attract an additional 1.2m residents and visitors to the shopping centre each year.

Coun Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “After the closure of Debenhams in 2021, we were determined to find the right sort of replacement anchor tenant – one that would have a hugely positive impact on the Houndshill and match our ambitions for the rejuvenation of the wider town centre.”

“Our patience and perseverance have paid off. Frasers group has compelling national brands that will form a vital new anchor and cement our place as a regional shopping destination.”