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25
Jan 2021
What next for Debenhams building in Harrogate?
For generations, the Debenhams building on Parliament Street has been one of the major retail landmarks in Harrogate.
It has also been one of the biggest stores, so news that is will not reopen has raised questions about the site's future.
With many High Street stores struggling even before the lockdown, it won't be easy finding a retailer for such a large unit.
Developers may scent an opportunity to apply for planning permission to convert some or all of the premises into flats, as has happened with the nearby former post office.
Stuart Holland, co-chair of Harrogate Civic Society, said the site had redevelopment potential but the sloping ground level made this challenging and demolition should be considered.
He hoped any new building would have shops on the ground floor to encourage footfall between Parliament Street and Oxford Street, adding:
Read more:
- Staff let go as Harrogate Debenhams will not reopen
- Harrogate shoppers say Debenhams will be much missed
Mr Holland said the upper floors were more suitable for residential use, adding:
Tom Snook, managing director of Harrogate chartered surveyors Pantera Property, said the site should adapt to the "major shift" in retailing that is happening throughout the country. He added:
Look out for an article on the history of the Debenhams building in Harrogate by historian Malcolm Neesam this weekend on the Stray Ferret.
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