TK Maxx has applied to display an illuminated sign outside the former Next atria unit.

The three-floor store was announced on January 26, but the only indication of an opening date came when atria Watford said it would be “in summer”.

After the business later said it had been “working round the clock” to get its new Watford store ready, another step was taken as an advertising related planning application went up on the Watford Borough Council planning portal yesterday (March 27).

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If the plan is approved, TK Maxx would have permission to mount an eight metre long 3D illuminated white sign with a red "halo" outside the former Next unit until March 22, 2028.

Although work is clearly ongoing to get everything in order, the retailer continued to remain tight-lipped when pushed for more on when we can expect an opening date.

TK Maxx, which has its headquarters in Clarendon Road, has signed a 10-year lease on the unit.