Contractors Andrew Scott Ltd, working on behalf of Swansea Council, are removing fixtures and fittings to prepare the Quadrant Shopping Centre unit for its next chapter.
The council is in advanced talks with two well‑known high street retailers and a leisure operator. Plans would see the ground floor split into two retail units, with the upper floors repurposed for leisure use.
Council leader Cllr Rob Stewart said:
“We know how important the former Debenhams unit is for Swansea residents and city centre businesses. It’s why we bought the building with Welsh Government support after Debenhams went into administration and we continue to work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring it back into use.
“The strip‑out works which have now started are needed to bring the building into a condition that will be acceptable for prospective tenants to start their fit‑outs.
“Bringing the former Debenhams unit back into use is part of our commitment to deliver a thriving city centre for the benefit of local people, local businesses and visitors to the city.”
The works will also include re‑roofing the building. Once leasing agreements are finalised, the council says it will announce the names of the incoming businesses — expected in the coming weeks.
A long road to revival
The prominent 114,000 sq ft store closed in 2021 when Debenhams collapsed nationally. Swansea Council purchased the building in April 2023 with £2.85m Welsh Government Transforming Towns funding, aiming to secure a retail‑led future and safeguard city centre jobs.
Since then, the authority has teased announcements, unveiled temporary window vinyl artwork by local illustrator Hannah Davies, and confirmed in May this year that three businesses are lined up to open in early 2026.
Timeline: From closure to comeback
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 2021 | Debenhams closes all UK stores after going into administration. |
| Apr 2023 | Swansea Council buys the Quadrant unit with £2.85m Welsh Government funding. |
| Jun 2024 | Temporary window vinyl artwork by Hannah Davies installed; council leader hints at tenant announcement after General Election. |
| Feb 2025 | Council says stripping‑out and refurbishment works will be needed before occupation. |
| May 2025 | Council confirms heads of terms signed with two major retailers and a leisure operator; opening planned for early 2026. |
| Aug 2025 | Stripping‑out work begins; re‑roofing also planned. Tenant names expected to be revealed within weeks. |
Probably be another council hub