PRIMARK will not be taking over the recently abandoned Debenhams store in Churchill Square, The Argus understands.

Rumours have circulated on social media suggesting that the fashion giant will be moving into the Brighton shopping centre.

Primark was tipped to take over the Debenhams unit that closed its doors for good.

However, The Argus understands that this will not happen, with Primark remaining at its store in Western Road.

A Primark spokesman said: “We continually review opportunities for expansion of the Primark business.

"However, we don't comment on speculation about where or when we might open our next stores.”

The Debenhams store in Churchill Square was among the 28 remaining stores across the country that closed for good on Saturday after the company collapsed amid the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.

It closed 21 of its sites across the UK for the final time last week.

The Argus: People pictured queuing outside Primark when it opened in April People pictured queuing outside Primark when it opened in April

The store offered up to 80 per cent off all fashion and home and up to 70 per cent off beauty and fragrance products.

A spokesman said earlier this month: “We are now heading into the final days of our closing down sale and this is the very last chance for our customers to take advantage of some incredible deals.

"With up to 80 per cent off across our remaining stores, customers are urged to shop now while stocks last.

"Our sincere thanks go out to all of our colleagues and customers who have joined us on this journey.

“We hope to see you all one last time in stores before we say a final goodbye to the UK high street.”

The retailer suffered slumping sales in recent years as shoppers moved away from traditional department store models.

The enforced closure of sites during the pandemic was the final straw, resulting in the company falling into administration within weeks of the virus fully hitting the UK.

The department store, which employed more than 20,000 people before the pandemic, sold its brand and website to online giant Boohoo for £55 million in January but confirmed its bricks and mortar business would close for good.