Former Original Factory Shop store in Ripley set for auction three years after closing down

Residents will be hoping the building can be give a new lease of life

A prominent retail unit that has remained empty for more than three years has a chance to be brought back to life when it goes to auction next month. The Original Factory Shop in Ripley town centre's Grosvenor Road closed its doors for the final time in June 2021 following a sad, heartfelt message to customers left on the store's front door.

The notice, from a staff member at the shop, said: "Dear customers, it is with regret that we have to inform you that today, June 28, will be our last day of trade. The decision is out of our control and we have fought to stay but unfortunately, it has been confirmed that we are now closing.

"I'd like to take this chance to say thank you to all our loyal, lovely customers for supporting us over the years." After more than 1,000 days, the property remains vacant, with new images from SDL Property Auctions showing the vast empty space hiding behind the building's four walls.

A spokesperson for the auctioneer said: "The property comprises a ground floor, detached retail unit with prominent frontage extending 649 square metres. Internally, the retail area is predominantly open-plan in nature, with rear stores and access via a roller shutter.

"The first floor offers an office and staff facilities (kitchen and WC) in addition to a ventilation room. Ripley is a busy market town located approximately 3.5 miles northeast of Belper and 10 miles north of Derby city centre."

The unit is located within the town and sits adjacent to Ripley’s public library and within close proximity to national occupiers including Costa Coffee, Greggs, Birds Bakery and Card Factory. Additionally, the property has easy access to the Church Street car park, situated at the rear of the property, which is pay and display.

The property will go under the hammer on Thursday, November 21, with a guide price of between £325,000 and £375,000. For more details about the auction, click the link here.