Maybe we could attract Primark, says Scarborough MP after news of Debenhams closure

This comes after news that fashion retailer, Boohoo, who have bought the Debenhams brand and website, will not be taking on any of the firms 188 stores or workforce.

President of Scarborough Chamber of Trade, Janet Jefferson said: “This news is devastating for Scarborough.The Debenhams store in the Brunswick Shopping Centre was one of the best performing stores in the group, this news comes as a major blow for Scarborough town centre and the Brunswick Shopping Centre in particular.

MP Robert Goodwill said: "It is very disappointing news and something that is happening all over the country at the moment, not just to larger retailers but smaller independents as well.

"The effects of Covid have accelerated people shopping online and it is having a huge impact on the high street.

"Primark are one of the only retailers that have not gone online, so perhaps we may be able to attract them into the town."

Mr Goodwill remains positive about the return of shoppers to the high street and the town in general, he said:

"We are hoping for a very good summer when the vaccination roll out is complete and are hoping to see large numbers of visitors, who may have gone abroad previously now decide to holiday in this country, so hopefully that will bring people back into the town and shopping on the high street.

"My heart goes out to the staff and families affected by the closure."

Sue Anderson Brown, Centre Manager for the Brunswick Shopping Centre, has also expressed her disappointment following the news.

She said: “We are saddened at the announcement that Debenhams is set to close. We will be working closely with the retailer over the coming weeks to finalise next steps for its store in Brunswick Shopping Centre and will provide further updates when possible.

“This national news reflects the wider challenges facing retailers across the country and we will continue to support our stores during this period.”

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