Next in The Bridges set to expand as shop takes on unit next door

The chain is taking over the vacant unit next to its existing store in The Bridges, increasing floor space from 10,221 sq ft to 14,710 sq ft.

The additional space will be used to offer more fashion and homeware ranges.

The plan is for the larger store to be open from the spring.

Bridges Centre director Andy Bradley said: “Next is an extremely popular store and it’s fantastic to see the confidence this major retailer has in Sunderland with its expansion plans.

“It will be an additional incentive for shoppers to come to the centre, particularly as there will now be an even wider range of items for them to choose from.

“At a time when Sunderland is seeing a huge level of investment this is very welcome addition and shows how much the city has to offer.”