As many residents will know Debenhams has been empty for over a year, with other stores turning down offers to move into the huge city centre location.

Local Labour members are challenging the council to purchase the property and repurpose it to better serve Chelmsford. This building should be split into a multi-use space of

affordable apartments, commercial and community space. With its great location right by our thriving markets, this is a missed opportunity for the council to serve local people and boost the economy. Chelmsford already draws people from across the county to visit. Investing when we desperately need housing and income is surely better than it sitting empty.