Shoppers in Kidderminster have been sharing their reactions after the plans for the old Debenhams building were revealed. 

Yesterday (Wednesday, February 28), commercial property and investment company LCP confirmed that a big high street name, B&M, has signed a lease agreement for the site at Slingfield Mill, which is part of the Weavers Wharf retail park. 

LCP purchased Weavers Wharf last year with the aim of attracting good-quality brands to the retail park and boosting jobs.

A spokesperson from LCP said: “We are delighted to announce that a 30,000 sq ft B&M store will be joining M&S, Next, TK Maxx, Boots, New Look, and Matalan at M Park Weavers Wharf this spring.

"The store will be joining us on a 10-year lease and will be a fantastic addition to the retail offering already available."

The former Debenhams shop closed for good back in 2020 with B&M already having two stores in Kidderminster. 

Following the major announcement, shoppers have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the development which has been met with mixed opinions.  

Resident Clareece Bartlett said: "I'm glad it's being reopened as another shop but why can't home bargains or something similar move in?" 

John Hill said: "We've already got two B&M's, it would be nice to have something different." 

Adriana Kozuszko added: "Why go to B&M in town and pay for parking when I can go to the one where parking is free?" 

Whilst some residents were disappointed with the news, others were more positive about the move and have expressed their relief that an empty town centre shop is going to be filled. 

Philip Trow said: "It's good that someone has chosen to lease this large store. Better than sitting empty for years."

Lisa Marie Pearcey said: "Imagine how many hours we are going to be in here. It's huge." 

Joanne Horsfall added: "Clearly B&M is a good choice. A good shop in town by the bus station for us non-drivers. Better than an empty shop especially since the demise of Wilko." 

Reacting to the feedback from shoppers, Kidderminster BID manager, James Barker, said: "I'm not surprised by the reaction and I completely understand that people might be a bit sceptical but I also think that the reactions show how much pride residents have in their town centre. 

"Taking the time to feedback and react is important and just shows that people care about the shops around them and growing the local economy.  

"B&M is a great store and having such a big brand make a large investment in our town centre is fantastic news. It gives me real hope that Kidderminster is an attractive and viable place to grow a business and we should all be looking forward to the future and the other brands this move could help bring to the town."