TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taichung Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store is set to reopen in September after a deadly explosion damaged the property over six months ago. 

After months of repair work and safety reviews, retailers at Mistukoshi received permission from the city’s Department of Urban Development to begin restocking shelves starting Sept. 5, reported UDN. The department store expects to resume regular business operations the following week, pending final approval from the city government. 

A gas explosion occurred during renovations on Feb. 13, which resulted in the death of four people and multiple injuries. Following an investigation into the incident, 11 individuals were prosecuted for the accident.

Tenants received word earlier in August that they could begin making preparations for the department store’s reopening. The Department of Urban Development said the first two phases of the building’s restoration have been completed, and the third phase, which will allow occupants to return, was started this week, per UDN.

The report indicates that the initial timeline for reopening was planned for November. However, the business requested that the department store be permitted to resume operations ahead of schedule, by submitting a report on the restoration process on Aug. 22.

The Department of Urban Development agreed to the request. In the coming days, inspections of the property’s utilities, construction materials, safety equipment, and emergency escape routes will be conducted. Once complete, the business will be permitted to reopen.