A HIGH street fashion giant will create more new jobs than it originally envisaged when its second York store opens next month.

Debenhams is to unveil the latest addition to its chain when it takes over the former PC World site at Monks Cross Shopping Centre, with the outlet set to launch on October 15.

Its arrival will provide work for 69 people – an increase on its initial jobs estimate, which stood at about 50 – and give the company an added presence in the city after it reaffirmed its commitment to keeping its existing store in the heart of York open.

Since PC World’s departure to a new base at Clifton Moor Retail Park last year, the unit which Debenhams is moving into to create its 154th store has been split into two slices, with the chain taking up 15,000sq ft of space. That leaves 5,000sq ft area waiting to be let, with Monks Cross managers currently in discussions with companies interested in taking it over.

“I’m very excited to be playing a part in bringing Debenhams to Monks Cross,” said store manager Matthew Middleton, who has worked for the company for six years.

“Customers can look forward to an exciting and unique shopping environment, with some of our newest and most exclusive brands.”

The new store will stock Debenhams designer brands such as Jasper Conran, Julien Macdonald and John Rocha, as well as new childrenswear range Bluezoo, and will open from 9.30am to 8pm on weekdays, 9am to 7pm on Saturdays and 11am to 5pm on Sundays.

Last year, the chain confirmed it would retain its Davygate store, although it has previously said it would still be interested in snapping up alternative city centre promises should they become available.

“All our retailers are really looking forward to Debenhams coming here,” said Monks Cross centre manager Katherine Sharp.

“It is such a strong brand and will definitely increase the kudos of what the centre already has. We’re also delighted they are keeping their city centre store – it’s a real show of faith in York.

“Their arrival will leave us with 5,000sq ft to let and we already have people queuing up with an interest in moving into it.”