Old Dunelm store may reopen as two shops
A TOWN’s former Dunelm store, which has been sitting empty for more than three years, could reopen as two new retail units.
Plans have been filed to divide the large shop space, in Castle Street, in Hinckley town centre, into two units, while offices above the store would be turned into four apartments.
Residents would access the flats via an entrance in Castle Street next to the two shops, according to the plans.
The unit has been empty since January 2018, with the homeware chain moving out after they decided not to renew the lease.
In June, the former Game store, also in Castle Street, relaunched as Just One More, a gym, Pilates and fitness studio.
There are several other vacant units on the town’s high street, after the departure of Thorntons, H. Samuel jewellers and Dorothy Perkins, which have all closed since the coronavirus pandemic began.
The Santander branch at the bottom of the street closed towards the end of
July while independent grocers Cave’s closed in October 2019.
The town centre is soon to have a £1.85 million makeover, to repair and improve shop fronts and pay for events and activities to engage people in Hinckley’s heritage and culture.
The major four-year project is part of Historic England’s national “High Streets Heritage Action Zone” programme, and will include a contribution of around £360,000 from Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council.
Planners will also consider how vacant buildings and spaces can be redeveloped and improved.
You can send in your thoughts about how the money should be spent.
To have your say, fill in the contact form on the borough council website or call Paul Grundy on Hinckley 255671.