Dundee and Fife shopping centres looking for new tenants to fill sites

The Overgate shopping centre in Dundee is now in talks with retailers interested in taking over Debenhams’ space.

Tom Williams, fund manager, Legal & General Investment Management, which owns the Overgate, expressed his disappointment at yesterday’s news.

He said: “Overgate is saddened to hear of the imminent closure of the Debenhams store.

“This is a significant blow to the retail provision in Dundee.

“Our thoughts are very much with the dedicated team of staff who have worked so hard throughout these challenging times to deliver great customer service.”

Mr Williams said the shopping centre was already in talks with prospective new tenants.

“Overgate remains committed to delivering alternative occupiers for the Debenhams space as soon as possible,” he added.

Some of the 50 staff at Debenhams’ Dunfermline store are facing uncertainty for the second time in a year after moving from the Kirkcaldy branch when it closed last January.

Fife Council’s economy spokesperson, Labour councillor Altany Craik, said the announcement was devastating for everyone who worked there.

“It’s a really difficult time for retail and our high streets,” he said.

Debenhans occupies one of the largest units in the Kingsgate shopping centre and Mr Craik said the council would work very closely with centre managers to try to find new tenants.

They will also help the store’s concession holders to relocate.

The Debenhams store in the Overgate, Dundee.