Sarah remembers the excitement of her Saturday shopping trips to Debenhams Bromley with her mum. The department store at The Glades was their go-to destination for everything from school uniforms to special occasion dresses. When the iconic retailer closed its doors permanently in 2021, it left behind not just an empty space, but countless memories and a gaping hole in Bromley’s retail heart.
Now, three years later, that empty shell is about to get a second life. The former Debenhams Bromley store is set to undergo a major transformation that could completely change how locals shop, dine, and spend their leisure time in the town center.
Planning permission has been approved to split the vast former department store into multiple smaller retail and leisure units. This ambitious redevelopment project promises to breathe new life into one of Bromley’s most prominent vacant spaces, potentially creating dozens of new jobs and reinvigorating The Glades shopping center.
What’s Really Happening at the Former Debenhams Site
The approved plans will see the large, single-use retail space divided into several smaller units designed to attract a mix of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This approach reflects a broader shift in how shopping centers are adapting to changing consumer habits and the decline of traditional department stores.
“We’re seeing a real trend towards mixed-use developments that offer more than just shopping,” explains retail planning consultant Mark Henderson. “People want experiences now – they want to shop, eat, maybe catch a movie or try an escape room all in one trip.”
The Debenhams Bromley transformation is part of a wider strategy to make The Glades more resilient against future retail challenges. By diversifying the tenant mix, the shopping center aims to reduce its dependence on any single large anchor tenant.
The project involves significant structural work to create the new layout. Developers will need to install new entrances, partition walls, and separate utility systems for each unit. The ground floor will likely house larger retail stores, while upper levels could accommodate restaurants, cafes, and leisure facilities.
Breaking Down the Development Plans
Here’s what we know about the proposed changes to the former Debenhams Bromley store:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total floor space | Approximately 80,000 square feet across three floors |
| Number of new units | 8-12 separate retail and leisure spaces |
| Target tenants | Mix of fashion retailers, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues |
| Expected completion | Late 2025 to early 2026 |
| Investment value | Estimated £15-20 million redevelopment cost |
The new configuration will offer several advantages over the previous single-tenant setup:
- Flexible unit sizes to accommodate different types of businesses
- Separate entrances allowing independent operating hours
- Modern lighting and ventilation systems
- Updated accessibility features throughout
- Dedicated service areas for restaurants and food outlets
- Enhanced security systems for individual units
Property development manager Claire Thompson notes, “This kind of subdivision allows us to create spaces that work for modern retailers. A small independent boutique has very different needs from a chain restaurant, and this layout accommodates both.”
How This Changes Everything for Bromley Shoppers
For local residents like Sarah, who still misses her old Debenhams trips, this development represents both opportunity and uncertainty. The transformation could bring exciting new shopping and dining options to Bromley, but it also marks the definitive end of an era.
The impact extends far beyond nostalgic shoppers. Local business owners are watching the development closely, hoping it will increase footfall throughout The Glades. More visitors to the shopping center typically means more customers for existing stores, cafes, and services.
Bromley Council has expressed support for the project, viewing it as crucial for maintaining the town center’s vitality. “Empty retail space doesn’t benefit anyone,” says a council planning spokesman. “This redevelopment will create jobs, attract visitors, and generate business rates that support local services.”
The job creation potential is significant. While the single Debenhams store employed around 80 people before closure, the multiple new units could collectively create 150-200 jobs across retail, hospitality, and management roles.
Parking and transport considerations have also been addressed in the planning process. The existing car park infrastructure at The Glades can accommodate the increased visitor numbers expected from the more diverse tenant mix.
Some concerns have been raised about competition with existing businesses in Bromley High Street. However, retail experts suggest that a thriving shopping center typically benefits the broader town center by drawing more people to the area.
The development timeline means Bromley residents won’t have to wait much longer to see results. Construction work is expected to begin in spring 2025, with the first new tenants potentially opening by Christmas 2025.
Early interest from potential tenants has been encouraging, according to the development team. Several national restaurant chains and fashion retailers have reportedly expressed interest in the new units, though no formal announcements have been made.
The success of similar projects elsewhere provides reason for optimism. Former department stores in Canterbury, Reading, and Sheffield have been successfully converted into thriving multi-tenant developments, creating vibrant shopping and leisure destinations.
For Bromley, the Debenhams transformation represents more than just filling empty space – it’s about adapting to changing times while honoring the area’s retail heritage. The new development aims to capture the community spirit that made the original store so beloved while offering the variety and experiences that today’s consumers expect.
FAQs
When will the new shops open in the former Debenhams Bromley?
Construction is expected to start in spring 2025, with the first new tenants potentially opening by Christmas 2025.
How many new shops will replace Debenhams?
The space will be divided into 8-12 separate retail and leisure units of varying sizes.
What types of businesses are expected to move in?
The development aims to attract a mix of fashion retailers, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Will there be enough parking for all the new businesses?
Yes, the existing car park infrastructure at The Glades can accommodate the expected increase in visitors.
How many jobs will the redevelopment create?
The multiple new units could collectively create 150-200 jobs across retail, hospitality, and management roles.
Will this affect other shops in Bromley town center?
Retail experts suggest that a thriving shopping center typically benefits the broader town center by drawing more people to the area.
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