CONFIRMATION has been given that The Original Factory Shop in Holsworthy Town Square is to close, but the town’s mayor has assured the public that the shop will not remain empty for long.

Mayor Cllr Jon Hutchings said he had been approached by a member of staff concerned about the possibility the shop would close. Cllr Hutchings said the company was undergoing a ‘Company Voluntary Arrangement’ in which talks were being held with landlords across all their stores to re-arrange terms. He said these terms were ‘not sustainable’ and the landlord had subsequently looked for other tenants.

Cllr Hutchings said: “I took it upon myself to write a rather long letter to the owners of the premises to express my and the town’s concerns over losing the store in the centre of the town. I also pointed out that in my opinion finding another tenant would be difficult bearing in mind several of the larger premises in the town remain empty. Having made contact with the owners of the premises we have been in discussion regarding the store.

“The sad news is that the factory shop will be closing, I am not aware of the exact date but the lease will come to an end at the start of January 2019.”

After contacting the premise’s owner to express the concerns of the town and shop workers over the possible loss of the store, Cllr Hutchings said although the store would be closing another tenant had already been found.

Cllr Hutchings said although it was good news the store would not remain empty he expressed his condolences to those staff members who were served noticed just weeks before Christmas.

The premises owner confirmed talks were underway with another retailer and it is hoped installation will begin in the new year: “Accordingly, I have now agreed terms with another high street national multiple to take possession of the shop and their fit-out will commence shortly in the new year.”

However, despite confirming they will no longer trade from the store in the town Square, The Original Factory Shop has suggested it is ‘keen to get back into the community and if suitable, would consider alternative locations in the area’.

A spokesperson for The Original Factory Shop said the news was disappointing, and added: “We tried really hard to come to a suitable agreement with the landlord; especially as this is a store that has been performing well and where we are proud to play an integral part in the community.”