Scaffolding erected at the front of Winchester High Street Debenhams

It has been put up at the front of Debenhams, two weeks after scaffolding was erected at the back of the building.

The work is blocking pedestrian access to the St Maurice's Covert, where Winchester Flower Stall is normally located during the street markets on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The stall has moved to the junction of the High Street and Middle Brook Street, but the flower seller did not want to discuss the situation.

Scaffolding going up in front of Debenhams (Image: Chris Atkinson)Stallholders at the market have previously expressed concerns over the scaffolding.

As previously reported, Debenhams, which has been closed and empty since 2021, is to be re-let to a trio of restaurants.

READ MORE: Scaffolding goes up to the rear of empty city centre department store

It is believed that the restaurant chains Five Guys, Nando's and Pizza Express, which already has a location on Bridge Street, will move onto the ground floor. However, this is currently unconfirmed.

The chains have been contacted by the Chronicle, with only a Five Guys spokesperson responding, saying that they are “not able to comment” at this time.

The scaffolding was originally due to be set up on Monday, October 2. The reason for the delay is not yet known.

It will be in place until the end of February.