TRANSFORMATIVE work to breathe new life into a well known building is well under way.

The former TJ Hughes building on Sankey Street, which previously housed the Co-op’s department store, is currently being transformed into the Hive WA1.

This scheme hopes to transform the site into a ‘one stop destination that will be a busy hive of activity for work and play’ – including a shopping arcade, bars, restaurants, a gym, offices and a conference and banqueting hall.

And a quartet of fresh tenants has been announced.

Black Sheep Coffee, a London-based speciality coffee shop, has signed up to occupy the ‘prime unit’ at the corner of Cairo Street.

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It has taken on a 2,500sq ft space on a 15-year lease, joining its 51 sites presently open within the UK – as well as one in Paris and an upcoming USA expansion, thanks to investment from NBA basketball player Kristaps Porzingi.

Meanwhile, deals with three further businesses are close to formal completion.

Fearnhead-based Ruddies Pizza, which currently operates as a delivery service and operates stalls at events, will open a takeaway in the development.

George Rudd of Ruddies Pizza Brighella’s Gelateria will see a traditional ice cream bar open, fronting onto Sankey Street.

And Pendergast Steakhouse will take over the former Mojo’s Tapas Bar on Cairo Street.

They will follow the Brass Monkey sports bar, which opened in May and boasts ping pong and pool tables, shuffleboards and live music.

Meanwhile, 3,700sq ft of office space has been let.

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