Hundreds react to closure and replacement plan

Hundreds of people commented on the Observer Facebook pages about the closure of Poundland, with many expressing sadness at the loss of another store in the city centre.

Cynthia Ridgway wrote: “Poundland was always busy [and] nice for the people who are unable to shop in the more expensive places. Hope it will relocate in the city.”

Karen Elizabeth Fenton, among many others, feared that Chichester will ‘become a ghost town soon’.

City councillor Sarah Sharp commented: “This certainly served so many people and was usually full of people. Good that the staff might be able to move to other stores but lots of people will miss Poundland.”

Dawn Penney wrote: “This is not due to online shopping, must be the rents. So sad. So many shops in Chichester have closed within two years.”

Keeley Pinnegar said: “It won’t be long before the town is filled with only restaurants and coffee shops.”

Iain Mckelvie wrote: “If Poundland is closing, trade in the town must be rockbottom.”

Kirsten Becque said the pending closure is ‘ridiculous’. She added: “I love Chichester but I agree something needs to be done.”

On the other hand, Charlotte Dawson said it was ‘great news’. [Before news broke that The Entertainer would be replacing the store], she added: “Put something decent there instead. Let’s have a Mango or Zara.”

Claire Rowland shared a similar stance. She said: “Am I the only person that this actually makes happy?”

Steve Wernham also remained positive.

He said: “Things are certainly looking good and on the up for East Street with The Entertainer and Coop opening soon. Just need something to happen in West Street.”