A new retailer is set to move into the former TK Maxx building in Stafford town centre after the lease for the Heart Building comes to an end next month.
The large former retail unit at Friary Retail Park has been managed by Stafford Gatehouse Theatre over the past year as a community, arts and events space.
However, the Gatehouse has confirmed that the lease will end next month as a new retailer takes over the building.
The name of the new retailer has not yet been confirmed in the Gatehouse announcement, but the move means one of Stafford town centre’s largest former retail units is set to return to commercial use.
From empty shop to community space
The building became vacant after TK Maxx relocated from Friary Retail Park to Queens Retail Park in May 2025.
Before that move, HomeSense closed at Queens Retail Park at the end of March 2025, allowing TK Maxx to move into the larger retail park unit.
In September 2025, the former TK Maxx unit was then offered to local creative or community groups through Hypha Studios, a charity which helps match creatives with empty high street spaces.
The 19,000 sq ft building was later awarded to Stafford Gatehouse Theatre for its Heart of Stafford project, turning the empty retail space into a home for arts, rehearsals, performances, workshops and community activities.
What happened at the Heart Building?
The Heart Building has been managed by the Gatehouse in partnership with Freedom Leisure, with support from Hypha Studios.
During its time as a community venue, it provided space for events, activities, gatherings, charities and local groups.
The project also housed groups including DAPPA Dance and Gatehouse Youth Theatre, while giving Stafford a temporary town centre space for creative and community use.
Gary Stevens, General Manager of Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, said he was proud of what had been achieved over the past year.
He said: “I’m very proud of what’s been achieved over the past year. I’d like to thank our partners at Hypha Studios for believing in the project and for helping us create a space that has been embraced by so many people.
“Most importantly, I’d like to thank everyone who walked through the doors, whether to attend an event, support a community group or simply enjoy being part of something special.
“The success of the Heart Building has shown what’s possible when organisations work together for the benefit of the community, and we look forward to building on that spirit in the future.”
Supporting local businesses helps keep The Stafford Bulletin growing.
Interested in this space? Message The Stafford Bulletin to ask about local sponsor placements.
Positive news for a major town centre unit
Although the end of the Heart Building will be disappointing for many of the groups who used it, the return of the former TK Maxx unit to retail use is a positive sign for Stafford town centre.
Large vacant units can be difficult to fill, especially when they have previously been occupied by major national retailers.
Gary added: “While we’re sad that this chapter has come to a close, it’s great to see the building back in use for retail purposes and we wish the new tenants every success.
“For our part, with the Gatehouse programme full to bursting, we remain dedicated to exploring future opportunities to provide more spaces for live entertainment, community events and activities across Stafford. If anyone wants to put any ideas forward, please do get in touch.”
The Gatehouse also thanked its patrons, community groups, Stafford Borough Council, Hypha Studios and the wider Stafford community for supporting the project.
More details about the incoming retailer are expected to be confirmed in due course.
Leave a Reply