Speculation if rife over the future of the old Debenhams department store after we revealed the huge site has new owners. The six-storey building has been empty for almost 18 months after the company went into administration.
But it now appears something is finally going to happen to the store with work taking place to remove interior shop fittings last week - although boardings over the main entrances from Horsefair and St James Barton remain sealed.
In the meantime, we’ve asked our readers what they would like to see at the landmark store - and the responses have been very interesting with suggestions ranging from a Laser Quest to an indoor food market.
Comments left on our Facebook page also show people are united in not wanting student accommodation. Former Debenhams stores in cities like Gloucester and Leeds are being turned into student flats.
Here are our pick of eight suggestions left by readers for the future of the site.
1. Homeless Shelter
Barbara Banks said that given the current financial situation, the building should be converted into furnished studio flats for the homeless and other people in emergency situations
2. Debenhams... again
Optimistic... but Stu Haven wants another Debenhams. ‘Rising from the ashes,’ he says. Slight problem is the company collapsed into administration last year. Good idea, though!
3. Wetherspoon pub
It would be one of the biggest Wetherspoon pubs in the country. Several people have suggested Tim Martin takes on the six-storey property for a huge pub. Would you call in for a swift one?
4. Move in the Galleries shops
Interesting idea. Plans are afoot to redevelop The Galleries into a mixed scheme with flats - so why not move some of the shops over? Darrell Hillman says ‘sounds good’. Photo: BristolWorld