BOSSES behind a new project to inject a new lease of life into Southend High Street’s empty Debenhams have been forced to scrap its grand weekend opening. 

The former shop, which closed three years ago in the Royals Shopping Centre, is being transformed by the Utilize Project to create a new bustling home for small businesses and organisations to flourish and grown.

It had been due to open on Saturday but it has now been revealed there has been a setback. 

Bosses told the Echo that due to “unforeseen circumstances regarding planning”, the planned opening has been ditched.

Sonny Shahnawaz, director of The Utilize Project, has stressed it will start operating “at some point this year”.

However, he was unable to provide a specific date. 

Mr Shahnawaz said when it does open, it is going to be “fantastic”.

Daniel Nelson, councillor responsible for economic growth and investment, said: “It is disappointing when there are delays.

“However, this is a delay and not a cancellation. We will continue to work with the provider to ensure they will open.”

It comes as the original planned July launch was pushed back due to delays with “brands bringing their materials to the site”.

Mr Shahnawaz previously told the Echo a shortlist of 10 companies had been compiled.

This includes the plus size fashion brand Dearcurves, which has appeared in big-name magazine titles, such as Vogue and Elle.

Joining Dearcurves on the list are more clothing business, watch and jewellery firms.

The non-profit organisation, based in Canary Wharf, primarily work in and around the capital.

Projects include abandoned factories turning into fashion hubs, disused shops into incubators and neglected homes into hackspaces.

The Southend project not only marks a new addition for the city, but also a step forward for the business as they expand outside of London.

Debenhams closed its doors for the final time at the Royals Shopping Centre, following the collapse of the department store chain.

Residents pushed for the Range to open in the former shop after it announced plans to take over the former Debenhams in Chelmsford High Street.