A BUDGET retailer has signed up to a new development which will be partially-built from a former prison.

Grocery store Iceland, has signed up to a two storey unit, at the Treadmills development in Northallerton.

Treadmills, which is a joint venture between Hambleton District Council and the Wykeland Group, will incorporate several grade-II listed former prison buildings as part of the scheme.

The group behind the development said Iceland's commitment to the site would kick-start construction works over the next few months.

Jonathan Stubbs, development director at the Wykeland Group, said: “We’re delighted to have secured Iceland as the latest leading brand to join Treadmills.

"This is another major boost for the development and paves the way for construction work to begin – we’re also fielding strong interest in other opportunities, including four restaurant units around the civic square that will form the centrepiece of the scheme.

“We will go out to tender in the next few weeks to identify a contractor to deliver the first phase of the development, with work due to begin on site this summer.”

Iceland's announcement follows Lidl's decision to join the development last year.

It is expected more than 180 jobs will be created.

A spokesperson for Love Northallerton said: “It’s great news that Iceland have signed up for Treadmills.

"We’re very excited about all the extra retail and leisure opportunities this development is bringing to Northallerton.”