DETAILS have been revealed today on major plans which are set to see a famous retail brand from Bournemouth's past return this summer.

As first reported in the Daily Echo, Bobby's department store will be occupying the Debenhams unit in the heart of the town centre.

Bobby & Co opened in Bournemouth Square in May 1915 but became Debenhams in 1972.

However, with the latter set to close in a matter of days, Bobby's will take on the site with an opening scheduled for July.

The team at Verve Properties are behind the major development, which has been described as a "real statement" for the high street.

Ashley Nicholson, director of Verve Properties, said: “If shoppers are going to be tempted back into town centres, retailers need to consider what kind of shopping experience people will want to happen in real life.

"Beauty, clothing and footwear are good examples of retail that people want to try out in person."

Bournemouth Echo:

And here are the details on what we know so far about the plans for the building.

  • Art gallery
  • Beauty floor with environmentally-conscientious brands as well as the big hitters
  • Sushi and plant-based Poke Bowl Bar
  • Nail bar, beauty bar and blow dry station
  • Male grooming salon. 
  • Deli and vegan deli
  • Café
  • Market style pods
  • Spa
  • Prosecco bar
  • Event space
  • Restaurant
  • Garden area
  • Micro brewary
  • Craft ale smokery bar
  • Roof terrace
  • And more – all with a key focus on the local community

While the new store is set to open in mid-July, further elements will be added later this year and into 2022.