James Ireland, Centre Manager, Loreburne Shopping Centre has issued a warning that if ‘ Next’ move out of town that it could be ‘the catalyst for other anchor retailers to follow.’
James said in his statement
“We are extremely disappointed to learn that Next is considering leaving the town centre and are very concerned at the implications this will have on our town centre if the move goes ahead.“We have offered additional floor space to Next in the past which, disappointingly, wasn’t progressed by Next. We can provide a total floor space within the Loreburne Shopping Centre which is more than the total floor space which Next is proposing in its current planning application for Cuckoo Bridge.
“We are working hard to offer a number of options to Next including reducing their occupational costs, in addition to their reduced rate costs, and are already discussing with them extending their opening hours to be in line with existing retailers. We will continue to liaise with Next to retain their much needed presence to ensure the future vibrancy of our town centre and safeguard vital jobs.
“Dumfries town centre is already under threat from the internet and the out-of-town retail market – allowing Next to relocate will only be the catalyst for other anchor retailers to follow. If that is allowed to happen the town centre will become filled with more void units, charity shops or discounters.”
Image COURTESY of Loreburne Shopping Centre
