Debenhams have announced the refurbishment of their Chester branch, which has benefitted from an investment of more than £1m.

The store has undergone a series of improvement works and from Saturday, September 24 customers will be able to enjoy the new layout and facilities, which are launching simultaneously with the Autumn/Winter 16 Spectacular event, where new season fashion lines will be showcased and there will be discounts throughout the store.

The store refurbishment includes the extensive makeover of the famous grand ballroom on the first floor, which will now house a new handbag boutique, featuring the latest styles from the Designers at Debenhams ranges.

The redesigned store will also feature a new fragrance hall and the launch of several new brands within the beauty department, including Kiehl’s, Georgio Armani Beauty and Murad.

A new staircase and lifts have been built to improve access to the basement, where a new shoe boudoir will be located, featuring brands such as Kurt Geiger, Faith, Dune, and Lotus.

Childrenswear will also benefit from improved access in its new location on the second floor.

Store manager Philip Elliott said: “We are really excited about the changes that we have made to Debenhams Chester and we can’t wait for our customers to see the newly refurbished store.

“The ballroom in particular has always been a local landmark, so we are pleased to have been able to restore it to its full glory and we think that our customers will really enjoy spending time there while they browse our beautiful handbag ranges. Our beauty department is also always extremely popular, so we are pleased to be able to add even more brands for our customers to choose from.”

The Debenhams Chester department store opened in 1791, trading as Browns of Chester, and was acquired by Debenhams in 1976.

The store currently employs nearly 400 people.