Two boys have been arrested after police found them inside Nottingham’s former Debenhams building.
Officers were called on Monday afternoon (24 August) following a report that young people had gained access to the roof of the derelict city centre property.
Boys aged 13 and 15 were arrested on suspicion of entering premises in breach of a closure order. Both have since been released on bail while police continue their enquiries.
The closure order was first granted by magistrates in December 2025 following repeated reports of antisocial behaviour at the building. It has since been extended several times.
The order allows police to arrest anyone who enters the premises without authorisation.
Six boys were arrested following an incident last year in which tiles and other objects were reportedly thrown from the roof.
Chief Inspector Kylie Davies, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “The public told us the property was a magnet for antisocial behaviour, so we worked with Nottingham City Council to get it closed.
“We will not tolerate people breaching closure orders and causing antisocial behaviour in the city centre. These orders are in place to protect the public and tackle persistent problems, and we will take action against anyone who chooses to ignore them.”
The closure order forms part of Operation Reclaim, a partnership initiative addressing issues in Nottingham city centre, including youth antisocial behaviour.
Closure orders can be granted under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 where serious nuisance, disorder or criminal behaviour is linked to a property.
