A BUSINESS leader is delighted Barrow's Debenhams store is reopening and hopes it can boost the confidence of shoppers to start coming back to the town centre.

The Debenham store, based on Portland Walk, was one of the 50 stores announced to be reopening on June 15.

Colin Garnett, Barrow BID manager, said: “We are really pleased to hear that Barrow’s Debenhams store is one of the first stores to re-open across the UK.

“This shows that Debenhams have confidence in the Barrow store and realise that it is a viable business.

“I have spoken to Matthew Shannon the store manager and he assures me that the store will be implementing measures that will ensure the safety of staff and customers.

“If we want to keep a Debenhams in Barrow and we want to create a thriving town centre it is up to local residents to support the businesses and shop local.

“Barrow BID are working with the local council and partners to assist businesses to put safety measures in place, so local residents should have the confidence to come back to the town to do their shopping.

“Many businesses have supported the local community during the COVID-19 pandemic and we hope the local community will return the favour and support the national chains, independent businesses and market traders who make up our town centre.”

Preparations for reopening are well under way, with strict social distancing and hygiene procedures being implemented across all stores in adherence with the latest Government guidance and instruction.