There are plans to develop the area and build a complex to include shopping and student housing. It will cause a hell of a lot of upheaval in the city centre.There has been some opposition,so not sure it will get the go-ahead.
B&M Bargains, a cheapo tacky Northern shop chain in our nearest one. I have no idea what the ones in Blackpool and Preston were replaced by though (nearest large towns).
TJHughs is a kind of discount place....mostly rubbish-but good prices on small appliances and some beauty/cosmetics items...also pillows and duvets. I got a silentnight 13.5 tog reduced to £12.99 last week.