THE Cumbria Chamber of Commerce has said that a major retailer agreeing terms to take on a section of the former Debenhams unit should provide ‘a real boost’ for the city.

A ‘major international retailer’ is set to move into the ground floor of the former Debenhams unit in Carlisle City Centre according to real estate company, Savills.

Debenhams closed in the city centre in May 2021 and the building has remained vacant ever since.

Alongside the former Debenhams building, Savills is also marketing the long leasehold for The Lanes shopping centre in the city which is up for more £15.7million.

The Lanes is one of the major shopping destinations in Carlisle and shops include Primark, Next, Superdrug, New Look, River Island, Costa Coffee and Lush.

The director of retail investment at Savills said that this was a ‘rare opportunity’ to acquire the leasehold.

Cumbria Chamber of Commerce managing director, Suzanne Caldwell, said she ‘hoped’ that a new leaseholder could be found ‘quickly’.

“Clearly anyone filling even part of the Debenhams space has to be welcome,” said Suzanne.

“It’s been empty for far too long and a major retailer moving in should provide a real boost.  

“It’s also to be hoped that a new leaseholder is found quickly for The Lanes, a key part of our city centre.”

The plans have been welcomed by local residents who have praised the scheme to fill part of a large unit which has remained vacant for three and a half years.

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The arrival of a new retailer has also been back by Carlisle MP, Julie Minns. 

"A major international retailer potentially taking over the old Debenhams building is very welcome news and would be a great boost for Carlisle and its city centre," said Ms Minns.

"Businesses are once again finding confidence in the UK economy thanks to stable government and investment in our public services. Britain is once again open for business."