Plans to bring STACK to Bishop Auckland have been given the go-ahead as part of a commitment to make the town a top visitor destination.
The Danieli Group announced plans to bring its STACK brand to the town last year – providing a place for people to eat, drink and be entertained while creating a new opportunity for local food operators.
Councillors have now given the green light to the scheme, which will see the creation of the mixed use venue at Newgate Street in the heart of the town centre.
While STACK Seaburn in Sunderland and STACK Newcastle were created out of shipping containers, STACK Bishop Auckland will be a purpose-built building, but internally will have all the signature elements that the brand has become renowned for.
The company was appointed as development partner by Durham County Council to bring the scheme to fruition, initially borne out of feedback from the 2019 Town Centre Masterplan which highlighted the need for more leisure outlets.
Neill Winch, CEO of Danieli Group, said: “We are delighted that the council has given STACK Bishop Auckland the go-ahead and recognise what it will mean to the town. Bringing together independent food traders, an outlet for musicians and a venue for special events will provide a huge boost for the local economy. STACK has been a huge success story wherever we have opened and we are looking forward to creating that same excitement – and level of prosperity – in Bishop Auckland.
“STACK Bishop Auckland will not only create jobs but will help the town in so many different ways, from providing an outlet for local food traders to being a place that both locals and visitors can enjoy. We can’t wait to get started.”
Work is expected to begin immediately with a view to opening in spring 2024.