A WORKINGTON photographer has provided a ‘first look’ into the town’s newest department store as building work continues for the store opening in the Autumn.

Photographer Jon Joe, who is well known for his daily pictures on Workington Town Centre has provided the first images on the new TK Maxx in the former Debenhams store in the Washington Square Shopping Centre.

The insight shows a completely transformed unit, with the store almost unrecognisable in comparison to the old Debenhams building, as workers continue to fit out the new retail unit in the town.

Times and Star: The store is being transformed before the opening in October.The store is being transformed before the opening in October. (Image: Jon Joe)

Photographer Jon Joe said: “While out for my daily visit to the Town Centre, here at Workington including the Washington Square Shopping Centre, as I made my way around the shops in the malls, I was very fortunate in that the doors on the New T. K MAXX Store were slightly open.

“One of the builders working on the project was kind enough to allow me to take a few photographs of the interior of the building safely, from just inside the front doors of the building.”

The Times and Star exclusively revealed in January that TK Maxx would be coming to the town, with planning applications going in for alterations to the outside of the former Debenhams Store in Washington store, in September 2022.

Times and Star: Fitters continue to work hard in the store ahead of it's opening.Fitters continue to work hard in the store ahead of it's opening. (Image: Jon Joe)

Previously, the company had indicated that the store would be opening in Summer announce last month that the store would now open in October.

A TK Maxx spokesperson said: “We’ve been working round the clock to secure a fabulous new location in the heart of Workington as we know how much our customers value a great deal and love to hunt for shopping treasure in our stores.

Times and Star: The branding has now been placed on the outside of the shop.The branding has now been placed on the outside of the shop. (Image: Jon Joe)

“We can’t say much more yet, but Workington’s treasure seekers on the lookout for quality fashion and homeware at incredible prices can follow us @tkmaxxuk for more info, and shop from the comfort of their sofa at tkmaxx.com.”

TK Maxx has signed a new 15-year lease for the ground and part first floors of the building, which has been vacant since Debenhams closed their doors in May 2020.