THE newest plans for a retail development in the heart of Warrington have been submitted to the local planning authority.

Initially reported in the summer as being planned for an autumn opening, the retail development - 'The Hive' - has now submitted formal applications for the process.

The site on Sankey Street was formerly the home of a Co-Op department store, Poundland, and TJ Hughes, and is now set to become home to a number of shops and eateries.

Warrington Guardian: An artist's impression of what the building could look likeAn artist's impression of what the building could look like (Image: Newsquest)

As well as four businesses already confirmed for the site, a number of outlets are being proposed, including a boutique gym, artisan bakery, beauty clinic, tattooist, and wine merchant.

One business confirmed includes Black Sheep Coffee, known for its stores around the country, including in London, Liverpool, and Manchester.

The coffee merchants have signed a 15-year lease for a unit within the refurbished building, and the Warrington store will be the latest in more than 50 sites for the business.

Another confirmed outlet for the development will be Ruddies Pizza, which is currently based in Fearnhead.

Warrington Guardian: The interior of the site is planned to house an 'arcade-style' design for shopsThe interior of the site is planned to house an 'arcade-style' design for shops (Image: Newsquest)

Plans for the refurbishment of the building - which was originally designed in the late 19th Century - include reworking the ground floor face of the building, with consideration being taken to preserve the historic significance of the site.

Brighella's Gelataria will also be taking residency in the retail development, fronting onto Sankey Street and providing traditional Italian ice cream.

Meanwhile, 3,700sq ft of office space has been let – with a further 5,000sq ft available for coworking offices.

Other plans include converting the original Members Hall into a 14,700sq ft conference and banqueting suite.

Warrington Guardian: The building has fallen into disuse over the past few yearsThe building has fallen into disuse over the past few years (Image: Newsquest)

Ben Rafferty, a specialist retail consultant working with the Hive WA1’s landlord, said: “Some discussions are underway, but we are seeking operators for a number of different types of businesses – including a boutique gym, artisan bakery, beauty clinic, travel agency, jewellers, men’s grooming, ladies and men’s fashion store, music shop, tattooist, florists and wine merchants.

"If you have a viable business plan and can demonstrate strong commercial acumen or are already established, then get in touch.

“Rents start from as little as £200 per week."