Concern over future of Debenhams' Overgate workers as firm nears collapse

There's concern over what the potential collapse of Debenhams could be mean for workers at Dundee's Overgate.

Bosses have filed a notice of intent to appoint administrators at its 142 UK stores.

Dundee City Council Leader John Alexander says losing the city of discovery's outlet would be a massive blow.

"Given the scale of Debenhams in Dundee, it is a huge anchor store for the Overgate Centre.

"It's really important that it does have a future and I'll be working with my colleagues to make sure we get that clarity as quickly as possible."

Debenhams bosses said: "This move will protect Debenhams from the threat of legal action that could have the effect of pushing the business into liquidation while its 142 UK stores remain closed in line with the government's current advice regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The group is making preparations to resume trading its stores once government restrictions are lifted."

The vast majority of its 22,000 staff were already furloughed, with 80% of employees' wages covered for at least three months by the government's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

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