In a move that has left many locals disheartened Marks & Spencer has entered the consultation phase regarding the potential closure of its store in the Brunel Shopping Centre.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, 8th August, has sparked a wave of contemplation and concern among Swindonian shoppers with many saying this announcement had been expected for years.
Marks & Spencer’s official statement carried a tone of empathy as it acknowledged the ambiguity faced by its dedicated staff members. “Our priority now is to talk to our colleagues about what this announcement means for them and wherever possible, offer them alternative roles with M&S” the statement reads.
However, the news has prompted a chorus of reactions from Swindonian readers on our Facebook post announcing the news, each echoing the distinct impact this decision will have on their shopping habits and daily lives.
Christine Ricks, expressed her frustrations, envisioning the future of the vacant space. “It’ll only be a matter of time before it’s reconfigured into more flats or more empty offices 😡,” she lamented.
Sue Cockrem, who hails from nearby Devizes, conveyed a sense of exasperation as she spoke of the convenience that M&S had brought to her life. “I live in Devizes and M&S is the only reason I go to Swindon nowadays, as it’s a lot easier to get to and park than going to Bath. I won’t be going to Swindon any more,” she ruefully stated.
In light of the news from earlier this week of the possibility of Dark Room Coffee assuming the premises once held by Smiggle, Dave Mould tongue in cheek, suggests a potential bright side to the unfolding situation. “Chance for a bigger coffee shop in Swindon town centre now,” he mused.
Jeremy Wilks, capturing the sentiment of many, succinctly summarised the prevailing sentiment with his remark: “If you don’t use it – you lose it.”
Councillor Kevin Small, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for the Town Centre said: “I was devastated to hear the news that M&S is closing its Swindon town centre store.
“This is a sad day for Swindon and particularly for the staff of M&S who work at the Regent Street site.”
As Swindon Town Centre faces the departure of Marks & Spencer, it adds to the many challenges that have fallen on the town centre in recent times. The town has already navigated the unfortunate closures of Debenhams, House of Fraser, BHS, Argos, Morrisons and with Wilkos future still uncertain as the chain battles administration, Swindonians now ponder with a sense of anticipation: What next for Swindon Town Centre?
