RETAIL bosses in Barrow are hoping to help the town “evolve” in order to “attract Barrovians back to ‘their’ town centre”. 
Colin Garnett from Barrow’s Business Improvement District said the possible loss of Debenhams would be “a massive disappointment” for the town after the retailer announced plans to close dozens of yet-to-be identified stores.
However, he suggested that the closure “may also create opportunities for local entrepreneurs to fill the void”. 
The retail giant announced plans to to close 50 shops across the country.
 Debenhams is the latest major retailer to reduce the number of shops open on the high street following the loss of Poundworld and Maplin.
Mr Garnett said: “Barrow has seen a number of national high street stores close over the last five years, which has had a serious impact on the town, but Barrow isn’t an isolated case.
“Many high street chains are reducing sales floor space in order to reduce costs.”
Looking to the future, Mr Garnett said: “Barrow BID believe the town needs to evolve in order to attract local residents back into the town centre.
“We are working on a number of initiatives to improve customer experience and attract visitors and Barrovians back to ‘their’ town centre.”
These initiatives include improving parking and public transport links to the town centre.
He confirmed that “the ‘Festival of Transport’ will return on July 20, 2019.
“We are also pleased to announce that Barrow will be getting its very own soapbox race in the town centre. Barrow BID have teamed up with the Super Soapbox Challenge Company to put on a soapbox race along Dalton Rd on Saturday June 29 2019.
“Details of how businesses and organisations can enter will be released soon. 
"We are under no illusions that these events will not revitalise the town centre on their own. But prestige events will get people talking about the town and create opportunities for local businesses.”