National leisure developer set to enter East Midlands market

STACK, the leisure developer headquartered in Newcastle, is poised to introduce a new venue in the Midlands after acquiring a site in Northampton.

Market Walk, the project’s location, is conveniently situated on Market Square. Over the course of several years, the shopping centre has been unoccupied.

West Northamptonshire Council is backing the scheme, contributing up to £4.2m through the Towns Fund, while an additional investment of £8m will come from STACK.

The scheme will offer dining, retail opportunities, and locally-sourced produce from market traders.

Councillor Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration and Growth at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “We are delighted that STACK will be bringing their first facility to the Midlands and will be opening an innovative food and leisure space in the heart of Northampton Town Centre. 

“Following the successful acquisition, the developers will now take the first steps to seek the relevant planning and licensing permissions to bring this project forward for delivery over the coming months.”

STACK in Newcastle and Sunderland drew massive crowds to previously unused areas. STACK Newcastle saw over 3 million visitors in three years, while STACK Seaburn attracts 70,000 visitors monthly.

Neill Winch, CEO of STACK said: “This ambitious project holds the potential to make a substantial positive impact on the town, serving as a dynamic focal point for both the local community and visitors alike.

“We are confident that our innovative and inclusive leisure concept, which includes opportunities for local jobs and a platform for local street food traders, will contribute significantly to the local economy. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to bring the STACK experience Northampton.”