THE empty Poundstretcher shop on Hexham’s Fore Street seems the likely location for a new store planned by high end fashion retailer White Stuff

For a planning application submitted to Northumberland County Council confirms the brand, which sells clothing and accessories, is interested in the former Poundstretcher premises at 16-20 Fore Street.

It seeks consent for a hanging sign and fascia signs for the unit, which has stood empty since Poundstretcher decided not to renew a 25-year lease on the property in January.

It comes just a week after a spokesman for the company declined to comment on the location, timescale for opening, or number of jobs the new store could create, but said the details would be made public once they were confirmed. And, despite being approached by the Courant again, they have remained tight-lipped.

Meanwhile, adverts for a shop manager, deputy manager and part-time product advisers for a new store in Hexham have been posted online.