Department store Debenhams is set to open a new store in Lichfield.
The well-known chain has agreed a 20 year lease with Orchard Street Investment Management, owners of the Three Spires Shopping Centre. Debenhams will occupy the former TJ Hughes store which was vacated when that chain fell into administration.
Work is not set to begin on the new store until October meaning the unit will have remained empty for over 12 months. Having a new tenant is set to bring a renewed lease of life to the city, however, with many of the units at that end of the centre currently sitting empty. The extra footfall that Debenhams will generate will be a big attraction to other retailers.
Phillip Rodger, Head of Asset Management at Orchard Street, commented: “Naturally we are delighted to have secured Debenhams’ commitment to Three Spires and Lichfield, providing a much needed boost for the centre as well as the city and the surrounding area.
This is the first step in our plan to improve the quality and depth of the retail offer at Three Spires and we will continue to focus on bringing in new and interesting retailers to provide a diverse retail offering for the local community. We consider Debenhams a great addition to the retail mix of the centre.”
Gareth Dougherty, Acquisitions Manager at Debenhams commented “Lichfield has been on our radar for some time now, with its geographical location and demographic profile, making it an attractive location for Debenhams.
The unit provides us with the ideal opportunity to open a full line department store within Three Spires Shopping Centre and will house an extensive, exclusive offer with our Designers at Debenhams range.
We will begin work on the new department store shortly and look forward to opening in Spring 2013”
Councillor Mike Wilcox, Leader of Lichfield District Council, commented: “This is such an exciting announcement for both the city and Three Spires Shopping Centre, and we welcome the news. The arrival of Debenhams will undoubtedly attract more shoppers to the city centre, which is great news for the city as a whole.
“The new store will also bring much needed jobs to the city, which will be a boost for local people. We are also hopeful that such a prestigious name will attract more traders into the city centre, making Lichfield an even better place to shop and visit.”
