One of the county’s largest department stores is closing down for a major refit.

House of Fraser, in Fremlin Walk, Maidstone, is set to shut for approximately six months.

The company was first founded in 1849 as a single drapery shop in Glasgow.

It is now one of the last department chains standing in our high streets, following the departure of shopping giant BHS.

Each store sells a range of fashion, beauty, home and accessories, including designer brands such as Ralph Lauren, Barbour, Biba, Hugo Boss, Mulberry and Calvin Klein.

In August 2018, the company announced its intention to call in administrators, which would have put 17,500 jobs at risk nationally.

Entrepreneur Mike Ashley, who owns Sports Direct, immediately struck a deal to buy the brand and its stock for £90 million.

Large signs in the windows of the three-floored unit at the end of Fremlin Walk say: “Store closing. 20% off full price.”

A number of clothing rails have been brought out onto the shop floor and some retail concessions have already been stripped bare.

After speaking to one of the staff members, KentOnline has been told the store is shutting for a complete refit.

It is set to close at the end of March and will reopen at the beginning of October. The exact dates have not yet been announced.

A spokeswoman from Frasers Group said: “We are pleased to confirm that we are transforming the current House of Fraser site to provide Maidstone customers with a larger, elevated store that offers the world’s most aspirational brands.

“Following the group’s success in opening over eight Frasers stores to date, the group continues to invest in Frasers’ concept store model and will open a 65,000 sq ft. Frasers in this space, featuring a Sports Direct.

“The new store will open in Autumn 2024.”

Coffee chain Caffè Nero, which has a branch on the second floor, will also be shut during this time.

News of the refit comes after huge fashion retailer Zara shut unexpectedly in December.

Just a few doors down from the department store, the closure was a massive blow to the town centre during the festive period.

Several shoppers have posted the sale signs on social media and warned others of the closure.

One said: “Unfortunately, if it’s closed for six months, and Zara already gone, I can’t see many people shopping in Fremlin Walk, especially with the parking charges.

“By the time they re-open, people will have started shopping elsewhere.”

The nearest House of Fraser is in Bluewater, Greenhithe.

Caffè Nero has been contacted for more information.