NEWPORT'S Debenhams store closed its doors for the last time on May 4 this year.

Six months later, the future of the site – one of the city centre's largest retail spaces – remains uncertain, with no update on what will happen to it next.

Debenhams was described as the 'anchor store' for the city's Friars Walk shopping centre when it opened nearly six years ago, but in the past six months it has stood largely dark and empty, save for a few empty shelf units still on the shop floor.

The Debenhams brand and online business is still trading under the management of new owners Boohoo, but its department stores all closed down earlier this year, with questions over what happens next to these large retail spaces, often located in prime city-centre spots.

In Newport, Cllr Matthew Evans, the leader of the opposition on the city council, said he was "very disappointed there doesn't appear to be any sense of urgency" to revive the three-floor "prime site" empty store in Friars Walk.

"I haven't heard of any solution," he told the Argus. "It's not my job to look into this, but there are a number of suggestions, perhaps looking at entertainment or leisure – something that might help the night-time economy."

South Wales Argus: The former Debenhams store in Newport has been empty for six months.The former Debenhams store in Newport has been empty for six months.

MORE NEWS:

He added: "We've heard recently about the [new] Newport Centre not having an arena, so perhaps a venue flexible enough for events and music."

The Conservative councillor said he was "not convinced there was a retail solution" for the former Newport Debenhams, which still commands top billing on the signs outside Friars Walk.

Newport City Council and Friars Walk were also contacted for comment on the future of the Debenhams site.