They have now sold it on to a group of private Irish investors, who will become the new landlords of the stores which have taken up space in the development.

The Arnotts building went on the market after House of Fraser decided to close its department store, which had been a landmark in the city for decades.

Dawn came in with the concept of splitting it into retail units of various sizes to try to attract new outlets.

Of the seven units, five already have tenants. They are clothes stores Republic, Zara and Slaters Menswear, the Original Shoe Company and book store Ottakar’s.

Efforts to market the remaining two units will continue.

Dundee retailers’ determination to “pull out all the stops” in the run-up to Christmas is set to continue, the City Centre Action Group said today.

Shops have been making a special effort over a number of weeks to give their trade a boost and make it easier for customers to buy gifts through late night shopping, extended opening hours on Sunday, a “bonanza shopping evening” and individual store promotions.

Now, more stores than ever in the central shopping area — in addition to those in the Wellgate and Overgate centres — will be opening late tomorrow with most of those taking part doing business until at least 8 pm.