Two big household names will openside the former Debenhams at Metrocentre - with the names completely taking over the huge site. 

Mike Ashley's Sports Direct and Flannels will open inside the former Red Mall unit which has been largely left vacant following Debenham's collapse in 2021.

In an update, Metrocentre bosses confirmed a 15-year lease had been agreed on the 130,000 sq ft unit after negotiations.

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It means Sports Direct, which does not currently trade in the shopping centre, will return after a several year break and open on the first floor.

The Northern Echo: Picture: METROCENTREPicture: METROCENTRE

And Flannel, which is currently trading on the first floor of the Red Mall, will completely take over the ground floor.

The two brands will then operate under the same linked unit.

It comes months after Harrods opened its H Beauty store in the Town Square of the shopping centre, prompting much excitement.

Graeme Jones, director at Sovereign Centros, said: “These lettings will create a new destination point for the centre’s Red Mall.

"The store sits on one of the main entrances to the centre and therefore important from a visual presentation perspective.

The Northern Echo: Picture: METROCENTREPicture: METROCENTRE

"The transaction completes a major element of our business plan leasing up surplus former department store space.”

Mr Jones added: “Retailer interest in the Centre is strong. We are not only attracting new premium brands, but existing retailers are upsizing into new flagship stores.

"Both JD and H&M upsized earlier this year and are trading really well.”

The move will mean Next Beauty & Home will shut and be merged in with the existing Next store in the Green Mall.

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