THE future of a landmark Winchester boutique is uncertain.

L.K.Bennett, on the High Street, is considering a move from its large store formerly the premises of Debenhams.

The lease has been up for sale since February on the building it took over around five years ago.

The property is one of the most expensive in the city centre with a rateable value of £238,000 a year.

The Chronicle asked the company about its plans and in a statement it said: "L.K.Bennett has a strong and very valued customer base in Winchester, it is a key location in the UK for us. That said, L.K.Bennett reviews all of its properties on an ongoing basis to ensure they are the both the optimum size and in the best possible location in each town.

"We remain committed to having a presence in Winchester and are currently reviewing different options."

News that L.K.Bennett is considering its options comes only weeks after Beales announced it was closing its store in the Brooks Shopping Centre in August.