Refurbishment work is well underway at Yeovil’s Quedam Shopping Centre as efforts to reopen the Dunelm store continue following a devastating fire nearly a year ago.
On Sunday, August 25, 2024, emergency services responded to a major blaze that broke out at the store around 5 pm. Firefighters from eight local stations quickly arrived to find the building engulfed in flames. They battled the fire late into the night to contain the damage and secure the area.
Fortunately, all Dunelm staff were safely evacuated with no injuries reported. The company arranged alternative employment for the employees while the store remained closed.
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The fire caused extensive damage, destroying about 30% of the building’s roof and forcing the store to shut down. In the meantime, a temporary outlet was set up opposite the original location to serve customers.
Recently, the Quedam Shopping Centre provided an encouraging update on the restoration process. Though an exact reopening date has not been announced, significant progress is being made toward bringing Dunelm back to Yeovil.
A spokesperson for Quedam shared, “There’s progress!” and expressed excitement about reviving the beloved local store. They acknowledged the disappointment over the closure but emphasized the centre’s commitment to the store’s return.
Customers have continued to access products through click and collect services at the temporary outlet, and staff remain eager to resume work at their original store location.
The centre also engaged shoppers by asking, “What have you missed the most? What should we do for a relaunch?”