What do the new owners of Hastings Debenhams building have planned?
The Robertson Street store closed its doors for the final time in May. Since then many have speculated about what they would like to see replace the landmark store. Independent property consultancy Allsop was involved in the sale of the building which attracted 30 viewings. This led to nine bids and the sale of the building for 2.6 million. The building was purchased by Moxie, a family-owned property development company, in January 2020. Allsop had said the new owner wanted to continue to use the ground floor for retail and create almost 100 flats on the upper floors. Moxie said this was not correct. Sophie Hubble, Moxie company director, said: Since learning of Debenhams demise, we have spent our time immersing ourselves in the local community. We have built strong and positive links with Hastings Borough Council, community organisations and some local businesses to identify what the best possible end user for the building will be. A focus on adding to the community, creating new jobs and skills and preserving this building is key.  Her business partner, Bella Landen, added Its a really exciting time for Hastings right now with the new Towns fund. There are lots of new local plans and initiatives in the pipeline and Moxie are committed to finding a vibrant use for the building that will positively add to this mix. Ideas that have been discussed so far include leisure, entertainment and creative uses that would sit well with a retail offering on the high street. Moxie said it was determined to find the right offering for Hastings and its community.  And added: This building has a real emotional and historical connection for the residents of Hastings and its plans for the future are exciting.  John Bownas from Love Hastings praised the new owners. He said: Its been terrific dealing with the new owners of the building. They are so far removed from the typical faceless companies who you might expect to buy places like this, and Im positive theyre looking for an option that will be in the best long term interests of the town.  1. Debenhams in Hastings 2/12/20 SUS-200212-101802001 Buy photo  2. Debenhams in Hastings reopens on April 12 2021 for its closing down sale. SUS-211204-150554001 Buy photo  3. Debenhams in Hastings 2/12/20 SUS-200212-101908001 Buy photo  4. Hastings town centre pictured at the end of England's second lockdown on 2/12/20. Queue for Debenhams SUS-200212-143524001 Buy photo