By Pam McClounie City centre reporter

Last updated at 09:00, Saturday, 07 July 2012

The leader of Carlisle City Council says it is “first-class news” that Dickinsons Furnishers are to take over the former Chapmans building,

Joe Hendry

Councillor Joe Hendry says he is “heartened” by the news that the Victoria Viaduct building won’t be standing empty.

He said: “Dickinsons are a modern, stylish, 21st century furniture and lifestyle store that will attract shoppers from all over Cumbria and South West Scotland to the Viaduct area.

“I am really heartened by this development and look forward to welcoming Dickinsons to the city.

“This is first-class news for Carlisle.”

The Hexham-based firm will move into the former Chapmans building and bosses say 20 jobs will be created when the new furniture and interior design business completes its transformation of the landmark store. They hope to open in September.

Dickinsons already has stores in Hexham and Alnwick, but Carlisle will be their largest shop to date. The Chapmans shop has now closed. The business sells wallpaper, flooring, furniture and blinds – among other things.

Steve Traviss, chief executive of Dickinsons, stressed that they had not bought the old Chapmans business but were simply moving into the vacant building, creating a brand new store.

Staff who were previously employed by Chapmans are able to apply for the new jobs on offer but are not guaranteed a position.

“We’re a different sort of business to Chapmans,” said Mr Traviss.

“We offer a complete front to back service for people coming into the store – from helping them select the products, to supplying and installing them.”

The news is a boost to the retail trade in Carlisle and has been welcomed by the local Chamber of Commerce.

First published at 08:56, Saturday, 07 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk