Blow for high street as Larne shop set to close

The Larne branch of Poundland is to close at the end of next month in a disappointing blow for the local high street.
Poundland Larne.Poundland Larne.
Poundland Larne.

The discount retailer launched a closing down sale this week following the news that it will shut at the end of March.

The Murrayfield Shopping Centre branch first opened in October 2012.

Staff were unable to comment on the closure; however, a statement from the retailer read: "“Sadly, the landlord has been unwilling to bring the rental costs down to a sustainable level. As a result we have no option but to close the store.

"We are, of course, in consultation with our colleagues and we’ll be looking to redeploy them elsewhere if possible.”

An online petition has been established calling for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, along with local landlords to take steps towards reducing rent and rates in the town.

Alderman Gregg McKeen, chairman of the council’s Policy and Resources Committee, said: “The tough economic climate and its impact on the jobs of many Mid and East Antrim citizens and businesses has once again been at the forefront of the council’s debates on deciding this year’s rates level.

"We are fully committed to supporting our local businesses to grow and invest in the borough and we will use our assets to continue to improve the rate base of Mid and East Antrim.”

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