A great idea or a terrible view? What Mail readers said as 'box park' approved for Hartlepool retail park

Hartlepool Borough Council’s Planning Committee unanimously passed plans for the development at a meeting this week.

Six shipping containers, which will be used for retail, will go up at Tees Bay Retail Park – and could provide up to 40 jobs.

This is what you had to say on the Hartlepool Mail Facebook page.

Lynsey Feilden said: “I really don't think empty shipping containers are a great idea in a retail park and will look terrible in years to come. I love Hartlepool and I want it to succeed but this is not great I'm sorry.”

Jean Eastwood commented: “What’s that gonna do for the town? A few empty containers. How does that make it more inviting? We need shops not containers.”

Hollie Lindridge argued: “Best get the other empty units filled up first. Seems pointless.”

Tony Morrell shared concerns about existing empty shops.

He added: “Wonder when they are gonna start putting tenants in the empty shops by blockbuster?” Seems crazy that they kicked everyone out to spend a fortune and leave them empty.”

Some supported the plans getting the green light and welcomed the investment of new business in Hartlepool.

Linda Kendrick said: “Will need multi-storey car park as it gets mega packed already but very happy. More business. More jobs.”

Carolyn Stubbings added: “I want to see Hartlepool succeed. My birth town!”