When STACK Newcastle opened its doors, it was a revolutionary leisure concept for the North East - but one which was quickly embraced.
The combination of quality street food, stylish bars and a versatile space for live music and entertainment became much loved, empowering owner operators, STACK, to start a roll out plan, with a view to becoming a national brand.
STACK Seaburn followed next, opening on the magnificent Sunderland coastline, proving a popular destination for families and those looking for a good night out.
While STACK Newcastle had to close its doors at what was always a temporary site, work is well underway to bring the much loved venue back to its home town giving it a permanent location at Worswick Chambers in the city centre.
Now two further STACK developments have been given the green light, helping the company get a firm foothold in County Durham.
STACK Bishop Auckland was recently given the go ahead, a purpose built operation in the town centre’s Newgate Street.
Danieli Group was appointed as a partner by Durham County Council to deliver the scheme, borne out of the area’s 2019 Town Centre Masterplan which highlighting the need for more leisure outlets in Bishop Auckland.
After councillors approved the scheme, preliminary work has already begun with a view to it being open for business in spring 2024.
Hot on the heels of the good news about Bishop Auckland came permission to start on the Durham city centre project, an ambitious transformation of the former Marks & Spencer store.
The existing building will be completely repurposed, with the creation of coffee shops, food kiosks, bars, a roof terrace and STACK’s signature large scale entertainment space.
The plan also includes a games room offering a range of interactive gaming experiences including shuffleboard and darts using the latest technology.
Although very different places, the aim of both STACKs will be similar – to provide a development that will be seen as a local asset for both residents and visitors and help boost the local economy.
Neill Winch, CEO of Danieli Group is delighted to have had two such positive outcomes in quick succession.
“We know from experience what a positive impact a STACK can have on any area,” he said.
“Not only does it create jobs but it is also a huge driver to attract visitors and boost not only our development but the town or city as a whole.
“We are very excited now to move forward with both of these developments and continue to unveil more details of what will be happening there in the near future.”
Along with Bishop Auckland and Durham, STACK is also now taking the first steps to becoming a nationally recognised leisure brand.
STACK Lincoln – in what was the city’s former Argos store – is now underway, as well as STACK Middlesbrough, a three year pop-up scheme which is located at the underpass on Exchange Square and is planned to be open this summer.
STACK Carlisle is currently going through the planning process and other sites are also being actively sought.
“STACK is a proven concept which has something for people of all ages and that’s why it is so successful,” said Neill.
“We are looking forward to making more exciting announcements in the near future.”