Debenhams opening new store in Lichfield

Debenhams is to open a new store in Staffordshire creating up to 60 jobs, it was revealed today.

The department store has signed a 20-year lease to take over the former TJ Hughes in the Three Spires Shopping Centre, Lichfield.

Work to transform the empty unit will get under way in October with the new shop due to open in March.

The 43,000 sq ft store has been standing empty since June last year when discount chain TJ Hughes went into administration.

Debenhams bosses today said they had long had Lichfield in their sights.

Gareth Dougherty, acquisitions manager, said: "Lichfield has been on our radar for some time with its location and demographic profile.

"The unit provides us with the ideal opportunity to open a full-line store."

Shopping centre bosses said efforts would be made to bring more new names in.

Phillip Rodger, head of asset management at centre owners Orchard Street, said: "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."

Council chiefs said they hoped the big-name store would attract more shoppers. Leader of Lichfield District Council Mike Wilcox said: "The arrival of Debenhams will undoubtedly attract more shoppers to the city centre, and will bring much-needed jobs to the city."