Residents in Reading have mixed feelings about two new names replacing House of Fraser, with some branding it 'good news' and others concerned that unless ticket prices are low for bowling, it may struggle to survive.

News of discount retailer TK Maxx and Hollywood Bowl opening venues in Reading’s Oracle shopping centre has sparked a lively debate amongst locals.

Earlier this week, plans show Hollywood Bowl and fashion retailer TK Maxx will both be opening in the space vacated by House of Fraser in the near future.

A site plan uploaded by retail agents FMX Property Advisers shows floorplans for the Riverside, lower floor and upper floor of The Oracle.

Hollywood Bowl will occupy the Riverside level of the former House of Fraser unit, which will be divided into three after the shopping centre’s owners Hammerson won approval for division plans in September.

Meanwhile, TK Maxx will be opening at the lower ground level next to H&M and Bakers + Baristas cafe.

TK Maxx already has two stores in Reading, with one being in Broad Street Mall and the other being at the Reading Gate Retail Park.

The news came as something of a shock to some Reading locals.

Diane Mace said: "We definitely need more leisure activities in Reading and a bowling alley is a start."

Her sentiments are echoed by Russell Fox who appreciates not having to travel to nearby Wokingham to bowl, and Sherry Stargatt excitedly declaring her hopes bowling really does come to the town.

However, not all readers are enthusiastic about the development with many voicing concern about the commonality of large chain stores and absence of independent businesses.

Jennifer Brewer posed the question, "Do we need two big names?", while Connor Steepe supports the idea of more diversity in retail options.

Tina Norris also said: "More of what we already got then...boring." 

Many readers are also wary about the potential impact on existing retailers, particularly the Broad Street Mall which hosts another TK Maxx store.

If TK Maxx were to relocate, Bryan Hull fears "the Butts Centre ... will suffer" due to reduced footfall.

There’s a recurrent theme among commenters requesting more unique and alternative outlets, increased leisure facilities, and a stronger sense of community.

As Mady Smith succinctly put it: "I don't see why we need another TK Maxx".

Tom Allum chimed in with a similar sentiment: "Love TK's but we don't need a third one!"

With strong opinions on both sides of the divide, it remains to be seen if these two new arrivals will be a key attraction for Reading's shopping scene.