Plans for former Thanet Debenhams announced as bar, bowling alley and restaurant
04 December 2023
Exciting plans have been announced for the future of a long-closed former Debenhams on the Kent coast. In May 2021, the Broadstairs branch of the iconic department store chain closed its doors for good, and has remained a vacant space in Westwood Cross Shopping Centre ever since.
Now, Westwood Cross has confirmed exactly what will be taking over the large empty space, which is set to transform into ‘the community hub of Broadstairs’. Plans feature places to shop, eat and socialise moving into the unit, with Hollywood Bowl, Jump Inc and a Loungers café and bar confirmed for the site.
Jump Inc has been dubbed ‘the UK’S biggest indoor trampoline, inflatable and ninja park’ and will offer activities, events and parties for guests to enjoy. Spanning 35,000 sq ft, it will feature interconnecting trampolines, an inflatable park, 'Freedom Gaming', laser tag, an interactive footy cage, drop slides as well as a Jump Kitchen with seating for 200 guests.
Lee Shipley, Managing Director of JUMP Inc said: “We are thrilled to be making this next move and extending the brand by bringing something new to the town. The Westwood Cross site is different to anything you’ve ever seen before, Jump Inc will be the next generation of indoor entertainment and this new concept ties in with our company strategy of innovation and leading from the front."
Meanwhile, Hollywood Bowl will occupy a 24,000 sq ft space, encompassing 22 ten-pin bowling lanes, four of which will be VIP lanes, alongside a brand new Hollywood bar and diner serving up American classics like hot dogs, burgers, shakes and signature cocktails. There will also be an amusement area packed full of games and activities.
Dave Williams, Operations Director, Hollywood Bowl said: “Hollywood Bowl has built a strong reputation for delivering affordable family experiences across the UK and we can’t wait to welcome new customers to come play at Westwood Cross and make memories together in our new state of the art bowling and entertainment centre.”
Finally, Loungers, which operates over 200 sites across England and Wales, will be opening the ‘Riparo Lounge’. This new bar and cafe promises to cater to all tastes with its all-day menu that offers kids’, gluten-free and vegan selections which will be ‘served in a relaxed, welcoming space’.
