The store closed back in March(Image: Google/David Brown Commercial)

Inside empty shell of former Brigdens store in Derby city centre

by · Derbyshire Live

A former branch of one of Derby's most-loved fashion retailers has been listed on the property market - with images released showing the empty shell that was once full of clothing and shoppers. Some feared it might be the end of the Brigden name completely when Emily Brigden, a women's fashion retailer part of the famed Brigden name, closed its doors in 2023.

The Iron Gate store was one of four located within around 100 yards of each other in the heart of the city, joined by Brigdens Country and Brigdens Formalwear on Sadler Gate and George Brigdens, also on Iron Gate. After the building that housed Brigdens Country was listed for sale back in October, George Brigdens has since appeared on the market - and it could be a perfect opportunity for a prospective business owner.

Available to let at a price of £36,000 per annum, the 2,000 square-foot store has swathes of potential and sits in the heart of one of the city's busiest streets, with thriving businesses such as the Iron Ram and Slug and Lettuce often attracting hundreds of visitors each week. A spokesperson for David Brown Commercial, the estate agent managing the property, reads: "This ground floor unit is in an exceptional position on Iron Gate.

It is one of the four stores that could all be found within 100 yards of eachother(Image: David Brown Commercial)

"It has a total net area of more than 2,000 square feet and also offers a basement of more than 1,400 square feet. It is an open plan ground floor retail space with first floor and basement stores and it is available immediately on new lease terms."

Following the move to the large, combined Brigdens store back in March, a spokesperson for the retailer said it could see a resurgence in interest around Iron Gate. Nigel Sutherland, managing director at Brigdens, said, back in March: “We are very proud to be part of Derby’s history.

"Our business has had a presence in the area for over a century in many different guises. Although the area has seen a decline in recent years, we hope our positive investment here in the Cathedral Quarter will see a resurgence in interest in this important part of Derby.

The Iron Gate store now stands empty(Image: David Brown Commercial)

“We are continuing to work with key people in the community and want to help restore the city centre to some of its former glory.” As well as offering smart-casual wear, along with special occasion wear, all under one roof, the new store combines a workshop on the second floor where alterations to garments are carried out using the latest machinery.

Nigel added: “Although the internet has seen a move away from traditional retailing for many retailers, our customers continue to support us and constantly remind us that purchasing clothing online can be difficult. That said, our own online sales continue to grow - and the new focus of our own tailoring alongside British clothes is delivering a quality garment that we believe is unsurpassed in the present market.”