The site of the former Debenhams in Colchester has been empty since the store closed last year.

So what comes next for the site?

The shop in Culver Square Shopping Centre boasts three-storeys of space.

Colchester Council leader Paul Dundas argues it could be key in driving people into the town “if used effectively”.

Debenhams closed in Colchester in May last year after first opening in 1987 as the flagship retailers for the shopping centre.

However, following slumping sales in recent years, the enforced closure of sites during the pandemic was the final nail in the coffin, resulting in the company falling into administration within weeks of Covid-19 fully taking effect in the UK.

So what would you like to see in the former Debenhams site?

Answer below in our poll and tell us your thoughts in the comment.

Mr Dundas said: “I believe the unused Debenhams could be a great driver in bringing people into the town. It’s a huge building and, if used effectively, could present a fantastic opportunity.

“More broadly, the feedback we have received is the High Street is doing quite well post-Covid.

“The run-up to Christmas was all positive and it is always a challenging time after the festive period but we will see what happens.

“There is a relatively low amount of vacancies in terms of shops so I think it has probably recovered better than expected.”

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