No progress on empty ex-Debenhams store

PLYMOUTH'S disused former Debenhams store is still attracting interest from retailers and leisure operators - but it has hit a snag.

- By WILLIAM TELFORD

Companies looking to rent the ground floor of the ex-department store want its landlord to pay for the cost of fitting out the unit.

The wrangle of the fit-out costs has prevented the city centre unit being occupied for more than two years. There are similar issues facing the large former Staples building at Charles Cross.

Both are being marketed by Vickery Holman and the consultancy's Market Review event, held at Plymouth Argyle's Home Park last week, gave an update on the sites and other key properties in the centre of Plymouth.

Joanne High, an associate and head of agency for Vickery Holman, told the well-attended event: "They [Debenhams/Staples] are attracting interest from leisure operators, but not as active as 12 months ago." She said propcos (property companies) are not keen on splashing out large sums to fit out the buildings and want the landlord to stump up the cash.