Major fashion store latest to leave town
But could health retailer be moving into Derby Street premises?
A MAJOR store is closing down in Leek town centre today.
Posters have been placed on the premises of New Look in Derby Street saying “we’re moving out, drop by and see us before we go on Wednesday, September 26”.
The Post & Times contacted the media office for New Look to ask why the company is leaving the town and how many job losses there will be.
A spokeswoman said: “I can confirm our Leek store is due to close on September 26. I am not able to provide further comment.”
However rumours have been circulating in the town that Holland and Barrett could be moving into Leek.
A spokesperson from Holland & Barrett told the Post & Times: “We are constantly reviewing our store locations to ensure the best possible experiences for our customers, and adding new stores to our portfolio all the time.
“While we don’t have any immediate plans for a store opening in Leek, we’ll be sure to share any exciting news on our new locations as soon as they’re confirmed.”
District councillor for the area, Pam Wood, said there would be ‘nothing lef’t in the town for young people following New Look’s decision to move out.
She said: “It’s going to leave a big hole in the centre of the town. Many young people depend on it as it is the only place in the town to cater for young people in their price range. I am now getting worried about the number of empty shops appearing in Derby Street.
“Leek has done well over the last few years, but it seems that many businesses are feeling the pinch.
“High business rates are not helping the situation.” Leek Town mayor, Roy Tomkinson, said that it was a worrying trend.
He said: “People blame the district council but they have no control over the high rents charged by landlords and also the business rates which are controlled by the government.
“Landlords and the government should give incentives to businesses. This is a no win situation.
“It would be better if the high salaries paid to council officers across the country were cut and the money put into helping businesses.
“Over the years many positions have been created on councils and many officers are on more than the Prime Minister.”
The closure will see another Derby Street shop empty.
The town’s main street has recently seen the closure of Unique Jewellery shop.
The Bargain Booze premises are also vacant as they have moved to the former Chapter 1 premises along with the former Julie’s cafe and shop premises which have been vacant for several months. A bank premises is also empty in Derby Street as well as a large shop premises in Sheep Market.