BARROVIANS are saddened to see popular closed down department store up for sale and open to offers over £1 million.

Debenhams on Portland Walk closed in 2021 following the liquidation of the company.

The listing description on Rightmove said: "Portland Walk is the primary shopping street in Barrow and includes occupiers such as Boots, JD Sports, O2, New Look and Waterstones.

"The property comprises a former department store and a 106 space rooftop car park, from which there is direct access into the store."

Barbara Cairns said: "I have suggested it to local dignitaries in recent months, that Barrow Council could buy it a make separate shop units inside and rent them out to small business, making it into a small shopping centre."

Sweets Aplenty said: "It's sad to see all of the empty units in the town centre.

"Don't worry though we still have lots going for the town including independent businesses and shops on the high street as well as on the side streets off of Dalton Rd all offering a unique and personal service that you just don't get in a supermarket or online!"

Pat Shaw said: "Whenever was Portland Walk 100% full! Like the idea of small units, it would help small businesses."

Angela McIlvogue said: "Very sad. Loved Debenhams fingers crossed retail will pick up and the store reopened."

Mark Currie said: "It’s sad to see all the shops closed down but what is really insane is that the only business in Barrow that is thriving and pays very handsomely is BAE that makes weapons of mass destruction. Crazy world."

Nicky Stevens said: "We need a cheaper clothes shop for kids and adults as a lot of shops in barrow is full of takeaways or pubs, we need more things that Barrow people want as this town has nothing to go to town for, that's why people buy on line."

Christine Costley said: "So sad to see."

Walney lad said: "If this was in Manchester it would be a pub/restaurant by now.

"Someone with a bit of cash needs to snap it up before the pidgins move in."