Abandoned store to become shopping arcade and flats

A department store which closed more than five years ago and has remained empty ever since, could now be transformed into a new shopping arcade and flats.

The 7,815 sq m (84,127 sq ft) former Debenhams store sits over five floors in a prominent location in Taunton's town centre.

Developers said they want to build a new shopping arcade in the ground floor, then add flats on the floors above, and install an underground car park.

Councillor Tom Deakin, the head of Taunton Town Council, said he was "really excited" about the prospect of the building coming back into use.

Inside the semi-abandoned building, contractors have begun to strip out the parts that are no longer needed, in preparation for its total refurbishment.

There are still remnants of the old store inside, including untouched beauty bars, signs advertising various brands and even a working lift.

Developer Collier Planning has launched a public consultation on its new plans, which include a new link to Goodland Gardens and amphitheatre style seating.

Collier Planning also wants to include a rooftop garden, solar panels and "biodiversity enhancements".

Deakin added: "It's such an important location in our town and I think the plans get the right balance between commercial and community use and providing additional housing and accommodation in our town centre as well.

"It's located in such a prominent position with so many amazing things around it, whether that be Goodlands Gardens, our amazing independent quarter, the cricket ground.

"It's right that it gets the treatment that it looks like it's now going to get, and becomes a new, exciting space that people in our town and visitors can enjoy."

The project is yet to obtain planning permission from Somerset Council, but Taunton Town Council has given its approval for the plans.

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