A PIZZA chain is shutting up shop in Winchester among rumours it will be moving up the road into the site of the now-closed Debenhams.

Pizza Express, which currently sits at 1 Bridge Street, is being let by estate agent Savills with a guide rent of £45,000 per year.

Savills is currently taking appointments for viewings, the first of which was on Wednesday, September 4.

READ MORE: Winchester city centre road closed while Debenhams work takes place

The building equipment in Market Lane, which will be closed until September 16 (Image: Contributed)

When the Chronicle contacted the company asking specifically about its future in Winchester, a spokesperson for Pizza Express said: “Our most favourite thing is serving up our iconic pizzas with memorable experiences across the country. We regularly review our pizzeria locations to ensure as many pizza fans as possible can enjoy doughballs on demand, and Margaritas with their Margheritas. Follow us on social to hear about our exciting new openings and do check out our newest additions to the family at Summertown Oxford and Gatwick Airport.”

The news comes after the closure of Market Lane, between the High Street and Winchester Cathedral, as developers refurbish the old Debenhams building.

The revamped site is being converted into three units with Nando's and Five Guys already confirmed and the third rumoured to be Pizza Express.

The work began in October last year, while the Debenhams building, owned by Surrey County Council,  has been closed since 2021.

Market Lane is due to reopen on Monday, September 16.