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STACK scraps plans for Whitley Bay and Durham leisure venues
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STACK Leisure has cancelled its plans to open food, drink and entertainment venues in Whitley Bay and Durham, citing unforeseen development costs, slow planning processes, infrastructure demands, and wider industry pressures. The projects, which involved the former Empress Ballroom in Whitley Bay and the former Marks and Spencer store in Durham, had faced significant delays following the Covid-19 pandemic. STACK CEO Neill Winch stated that stepping aside will allow alternative providers to come forward, while local representatives expressed frustration over the stalled regeneration sites.
Wichtige Punkte
- STACK Leisure has shelved plans for new venues in Whitley Bay and Durham after years of delays.
- CEO Neill Winch blamed unforeseen development costs, slow planning and legal processes, infrastructure demands, and hospitality pressures.
- The Whitley Bay project aimed to transform the historic Empress Ballroom, vacant since 2018.
- The Durham project planned to redevelop the former Marks and Spencer store on Silver Street, approved in April 2023.
- Local politicians and business leaders expressed frustration over wasted time and the need for clear plans for the vacant sites.
- STACK remains committed to other expansion schemes including Wigan, Bishop Auckland, Northampton, Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield.