EXCLUSIVE: Find out which High Street chains are set to take over former Joules and Paperchase sites

We all know that Hitchin Town centre is a wonderful place to visit.

With more than 85 independent retailers - not to mention a raft of outstanding restaurants offering a range of mouth-watering food options, Hitchin has always been a destination visit from those who travel to sample all the wonderful fayre our town has to offer.

Despite the cost of living crisis, Hitchin has proved to be a resilient place, with a number of well-known national chains vying to take over from those who have had to make an exit.

HITCHIN NUB NEWS EXCLUSIVE

With Hitchin Nub News renowned for being first for news in our area, we have previously reported on the closures of the Joules and Paperchase sites on Bancroft.

However, in a Nub News exclusive, sure to grab the attention of many who visit our beguiling town centre, Hitchin Nub News can reveal who is taking over the pair of empty sites, vacated by Joules and Paperchase.

Hitchin Nub News understands that one of the empty sites has been the subject of a competitive retail tug of war involving at least three well-known high street chains - all keen to gain a foothold in Hitchin.

Hitchin Nub News can reveal that Oliver Bonas won the battle, and is set to take over the Paperchase site - fighting off two other rival bids in the process.

The self-styled British lifestyle store focuses on fashion and homeware, and has more than 80 shops across the country, with its values being: 'Work Hard, Play Hard & Be Kind.'

Hitchin Nub News can also reveal that the White Company is set to take over Joules' former site on Bancroft, with the company renowned for offering luxury clothing, homeware and gifts.

In other town centre news, Nub News also understands that Holland and Barrett on Hermitage Road will be moving into the old Monsoon site on Bancroft.

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