DEPARTMENT store chain TJ Hughes has confirmed that it is opening a new store in Warrington.

It comes following the closure of the business’ existing Widnes store, which shut its doors for the final time last week.

Although TJ Hughes has confirmed to the Warrington Guardian that it is moving to Warrington, a spokesman said it could not confirm specifics for legal reasons.

However, posters installed at the now-closed Green Oaks Shopping Centre unit state that the new Warrington premises will be within Golden Square Shopping Centre.

The Warrington Guardian approached Golden Square for confirmation regarding which unit this will be, but no reply was received.

A spokesman for TJ Hughes said: “It is with deep regret and sadness that the TJ Hughes store in Widnes has now closed.

“We are extremely saddened by the need for this.

“Unfortunately, a new lease could not be agreed for the premises, and our tenancy has come to a natural end.

“While we can confirm that we are opening a new store in Warrington, we cannot confirm the specific details until Monday, September 30, for legal reasons.

“But it represents an important step for us.

“Warrington is a fantastic location, convenient for many shoppers, and we believe this will be good for both the town and for our brand’s exciting future.”

TJ Hughes was founded by Thomas Hughes in Liverpool back in 1912, growing to become a national chain before entering administration in 2011.

It was based in what is now the Hive in Warrington on Sankey Street before it closed with all other stores in 2011.

The Widnes store was saved just hours before it was due to close in August 2011, having been open in the town for decades, saving 50 jobs, but it has now closed its doors for good.

TJ Hughes sells everything from home appliances and clothing to garden furniture and shoes.

It brands itself as being a ‘provider of designer brands and quality goods at discounted prices’.

It also has a store in neighbouring St Helens.