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Kidderminster Debenhams store permanently closing

The Debenhams store at Kidderminster's Weavers Wharf shopping park is to stay shut when the coronavirus lockdown is lifted.

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The chain says that after social distancing restrictions are lifted the department store will remain closed.

It has not been possible to agree terms with the site landlord.

Debenhams had opened the store in September 2009 creating nearly 200 jobs.

Last week Debenhams confirmed the closure of seven stores with the loss of 422 jobs after sliding into administration.

It had agreed terms with landlords to continue trading at 120 of its 142 UK stores and was in talks over the remaining stores, including Kidderminster.

The seven stores already confirmed as not reopening were Truro, Stratford-upon-Avon, Salisbury, Westfield in West London, Warrington, Leamington Spa and South Shields.

The long-established retail chain entered administration on April 9, appointing FRP Advisory to oversee the process, casting a shadow over the future of its 22,000 staff.

The Debenhams store in the Mander Centre in Wolverhampton had already closed in January.

Debenhams said: “Sadly we have been unable to agree terms with the landlord in Kidderminster and as a result this store will not be reopening when government restrictions are lifted.

"We greatly regret the effect on our colleagues, who have served our customers in Kidderminster with commitment and dedication."