BOURNEMOUTH’S Debenhams will reopen next week for a closing down sale before disappearing from its landmark site in the Square for good.

The Debenhams brand name and website were bought in January by the online retailer Boohoo, but all 118 remaining stores will close with the loss of thousands of jobs.

Debenhams said stores would open on Monday, April 12, when non-essential retailers will be allowed to trade again under the latest government guidance.

It said there would be offers of up to 70 per cent off fashion and home products and up to 50 per cent of beauty and fragrance lines.

“The stores are reopening as part of Debenhams’ final stock liquidation process and will continue to trade for a limited number of weeks until the stock in the stores is fully cleared,” a statement said.

Debenhams' Bournemouth branch to close after sale to Boohoo

It said all stores had been made Covid-secure, with hygiene and social distancing measures in place.

A spokesperson said: “This is the last chance for customers in England and Wales to visit their local Debenhams before sadly our stores close for good. We will be reopening with a fantastic range of offers and discounts across all of our customers’ favourite brands and products.

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“Stocks are limited and expected to sell out quickly so customers should visit their nearest store quickly to avoid disappointment. We are very grateful for the efforts of our staff who have worked so hard throughout the most difficult of circumstances to keep the business trading.”

Rooftop bar and tea lounge plan for Bournemouth's Debenhams

Debenhams’ Bournemouth Square store was known as Bobby & Co for generations, but became part of the Debenhams group and was rebranded in 1972.

The building’s current owners have applied to refurbish the store and add terraced seating, balconies, a rooftop bar and tea lounge. They have suggested bringing back the Bobby & Co name.

Police clear encampment outside Debenhams in Bournemouth

The loss of Debenhams in Bournemouth follows the closure of Beales in March last year and the disappearance of its Marks and Spencer on Commercial Road in 2018.

Dorset’s other Debenhams store, in Weymouth, will not be reopening. It is due to be replaced by a branch of the Range.