BIG changes are on the way for a long-empty department store on Winchester High Street as scaffolding is erected.

It has been put up at the back of Debenhams. Further scaffolding is scheduled to go up at the front in approximately a week.

Hampshire Chronicle: Scaffolding at the back of the Debenhams storeScaffolding at the back of the Debenhams store (Image: Christopher Atkinson)This comes after news that the shop, which has been closed and empty since 2021, is to be re-let to a trio of restaurant chains.

As previously reported, it is believed that the restaurant chains Five Guys, Nandos and Pizza Express, which already has a location on Bridge Street, will move onto the ground floor. However, this is currently unconfirmed.

READ MORE: Big changes to come to high street market as scaffolding to go up at Debenhams

The chains have been contacted by the Chronicle, with only a Five Guys spokesperson responding, saying that they are “not able to comment” at this time.

The scaffolding was originally due to be set up on Monday, October 2. The reason for the delay is not yet known.

It will be in place until the end of February.