Store reopens a year after devastating blaze

Buy photos » Dunelm Mill manager Paul Newman and his team of staff are set to welcome visitors to the new look store today. Picture by Jon Mullis 43.012.029.cov.jm1 (www.buyphotos247.com)

A STORE is set to re-open on Thursday just over one year after being reduced to rubble.

Dunelm Mill, at the Orchard Retail Park off London Road, was completely destroyed in October 2011.

Nearby schools were forced to close while smoke could be seen across the city.

Experts had claimed the fire could have been prevented with the help of a sprinkler system, and bosses at the retail giant have confirmed the revamped store will be fitted with a new system.

Chief Executive Nick Wharton said: "We are always excited about the re-opening of a store, and are particularly thrilled to be re-opening Coventry after last year’s fire.

"It has taken a lot of hard work, investment and commitment getting this store up and running and we are delighted to confirm that the store has been fitted to the latest specifications, including a new sprinkler system installed.

"We are confident that Coventry will help celebrate the reopening of this store and play a big part in the continued success of the company.”

A total of 45 jobs have been created from the re-launch of the 30,000 sq ft store, which will feature over 20,000 home furnishing products.

It was set to be re-opened at 9am this morning by deputy Lord Mayor Gary Crookes.

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