10 RETAIL MSP calls on council to support retail staff
Store closures blow
Monica Lennon MSP is calling for urgent action from South Lanarkshire Council to support dozens of workers hit by the raft of retail closures in East Kilbride.
The Labour MSP for Central Scotland has written to council leader John Ross to ask what the local authority is doing to support workers facing redundancy – and what long-term planning for the future is in place.
Her letter states: “My constituents in East Kilbride have been dealt a devastating blow by yet another retail outlet – Homebase – announcing its plans to close its East Kilbride branch.
“This news comes just a week after Mothercare and Aulds bakery closed their doors in East Kilbride for the final time.
“One by one, retailers are disappearing from East Kilbride. This year alone, over 100 jobs have been put at risk of redundancy by the closure of household names including Marks & Spencer and Toys R Us. The news that HMRC plans to relocate elsewhere puts nearly 3000 jobs under threat.
“I am concerned about the job losses incurred, and the extent to which workers are supported through redundancy. Can you please confirm what action South Lanarkshire Council is taking to support workers facing redundancy, and whether there is joined up support available for families facing reduced income?
“For residents and consumers, the town is no longer the thriving retail destination it once was. East Kilbride is in desperate need of long-term vision and investment, with a growing economy which can support sustainable and wellpaying jobs of the future.
“Decline is not inevitable but unless a robust strategy is put in place, we will continue to see more shops and businesses close which will continue to harm the local supply chain.”