Campaign Launched to Capture ‘Memories of Debenhams’

University of Gloucestershire has teamed up with Gloucestershire Archives to collect local people’s memories of the former Debenhams store, ahead of the opening of its new City Campus in the historic building.

The much-loved store – which began as Bon Marché before becoming Debenhams – has been a part of Gloucester’s high street since the 1930s and holds a special place in the hearts of many residents. From shopping trips and first jobs, to meeting friends and marking milestones, generations of local people have stories to tell about the building at the heart of the city.

As work continues to transform the historic site into a new home for the University’s Education, Psychology and Social Work programmes, members of the public are invited to share their memories, photos and memorabilia connected to the store.

The campaign, titled ‘Memories of Debenhams’, will see a team of University of Gloucestershire students will work with Gloucestershire Archives to research the building’s history. They will also select stories submitted by the public to be showcased as part of an event that will take place in the building on 13 September 2025, as part of the City’s Heritage Open Days.

Dame Clare Marchant DBE, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of University of Gloucestershire, said: “We know how much this building has meant to people across Gloucester and the wider county. As we prepare to bring it back into public use, we want to honour its past and celebrate the stories that make it special. This campaign is about recognising the emotional and cultural importance of Debenhams as we begin a new chapter in its history.”

Cllr Colin Hay, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Archives at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “As Gloucestershire Archives are the county’s official memory-keepers, we’re delighted to support this campaign. Debenhams has played a central role in Gloucester’s story, and I have great memories of being taken as a boy to Bon Marché, Debenham’s predecessor.

“It’s vital we preserve not just the history of the building, but the personal recollections that bring it to life. We hope people will share their memories and help us create a living archive for future generations.”

The University’s City Campus redevelopment is one of the most ambitious developments in its history, designed to boost access to education and skills training in central Gloucester while preserving the architectural heritage of the Art Deco building.

Members of the public can share their stories by contacting BBC Radio Gloucestershire or emailing [email protected].