Store operator urged to reconsider closure decision

THE owner of one of the biggest stores in Glenrothes has a moral obligation not to abandon the town, it has been claimed.

Local MSP Jenny Gilruth said the announcement by Dunnes Stores that it was to close its Kingdom Centre outlet was a hammer blow to a town that has already experienced heavy job losses in recent years.

She has written to Margaret Heffernan, the chief executive of the Irish-based department store operator, calling for the firm to reconsider its shock decision.

Given Dunnes’ anchor position in the Kingdom Centre, Ms Gilruth also warned the closure could impact negatively on the public’s perception of the wider town centre area.

“The closure of the store will lead to job loses in an area which direly needs more employment,” she said in her letter.

“In addition to this, there will also be a huge symbolism attached to closing the town centre’s largest unit.

“The week before you announced your closure, it was reported that 30% of children in Glenrothes live in poverty.

“I truly believe that businesses such as Dunnes have a social responsibility to the communities they serve.

“Dunnes is walking away from a community which badly needs these jobs.

“I urge you to reconsider this decision.”

It is thought that about 20 jobs will be lost by the closure of Dunnes, with a sign stating its last day of trading will be on Saturday March 3.

Dunnes Stores in Glenrothes.