Topshop to close Downpatrick store

Topshop to close Downpatrick store

5 April 2017

TOPSHOP is to close its Downpatrick store.

Staff of the Market Street clothes chain have been informed the store will close at the end of May.

The closure is expected to affect a handful of staff, who may be offered redeployment to other stores.

News of the impending closure, which has yet to be publicly confirmed, further fuels speculation that Marks and Spencer is considering opening its first food hall in the town.

Company officials for the upmarket chain, which has its nearest food outlets in Lisburn and Forestside, are reported to be seeking suitable accommodation for a Downpatrick store. 

Business sources have this week indicated officials have their eye on the Topshop building because of suitable nearby 

parking and easy accessibility for delivery lorries.

The building is expected to be vacated within weeks with, as yet unconfirmed, reports that the other tenants, clothing chain Dorothy Perkins and Houston’s, will move to a new Market Street address.

Responding to news that Marks and Spencer may move into the town, SDLP councillor Dermot Curran last week said other such investment by leading High Street retailers “provides hope for the future”.

He said the arrival of Marks and Spencer would provide a boost for existing businesses and create more new jobs in the retail sector.