The first phase of the renovation of the former Debenhams site in CastleCourt is complete as the first tenant has officially moved in.
Starbucks has opened a new flagship store on the ground floor of the space vacated by Debenhams when it closed in April 2021. The 2,500 sq. ft outlet, which is 50% larger than Starbucks’ previous occupancy in the mall, has access directly from Royal Avenue.
It was announced in March this year that planning had been granted for a new 9- screen luxury Omniplex cinema offering, The Avenue, alongside further retail units and an adventure and activity centre.
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Leona Barr, Centre Manager at CastleCourt, said: “Works have been ongoing in the former Debenhams unit, which has been divided into a mix of retail, hospitality and leisure, for the past six months. The opening of this flagship Starbucks café is our visitors’ first look at this rejuvenated space.
"Starbucks has moved from its former unit on the first floor to this ground level, street access unit, which gives more space and better access for our visitors."
It is the 20th of the brand’s stores to open in Northern Ireland.
Alana Coyle, Partner at commercial real estate advisory firm, Finch said: "Opening Starbucks’ new, flagship store with an upgraded presence at CastleCourt marks an exciting time for the complex as a whole. Over the next few months, we will be sharing even more detail about the hospitality and retail offerings that will accompany the rejuvenation of the site, and we’re thrilled to see Starbucks open with such success."
Leona added: "Starbucks’ on-street presence is significant, and brings some activity and atmosphere to the front of the mall, which is eye catching and an exciting nod for more to come. Alongside this, we will have a brand new façade to reveal in the coming months to complement The Avenue, and the new outlets that will be outward facing to Royal Avenue, marking our intentions to be a world-class leisure, retail and hospitality provider in the heart of Belfast City Centre.
"The next few months will see the city centre come back to life after a challenging couple of years, especially with the reopening of Primark as a central cornerstone for footfall in the city centre. We’re delighted to be aligned with this resurgence, and look forward to those venturing back into the city centre rediscovering CastleCourt and our new tenants."
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