Shoppers in Cheltenham are devastated as a historic House of Fraser department store is set to close its doors. The store, located in the iconic Cavendish House, will cease operations in mid-April. The closure of the 201-year-old building has left locals feeling disheartened and concerned about the future of their town.
End of an Era
The closure of Cavendish House marks the end of an era for Cheltenham. The building, which has been a shopping destination since 1823, holds a special place in the hearts of many residents. One local expressed their frustration, stating that soon there would be "no point in going to town, especially if you have kids." The closure of other stores in the area, such as The Entertainer, has only added to the sense that the high street is in decline.
Community Reactions
Residents and politicians alike have shared their sadness over the closure. Cheltenham's Conservative MP, Alex Chalk, sees this as an opportunity for revitalization. He suggests a mixed-use development that includes housing to breathe new life into the area. Local resident Martin, who recently moved to Cheltenham, described Cavendish House as a "landmark" and a significant part of the Promenade.
Job Losses and Future Plans
About 90 House of Fraser staff members were informed of the closure on January 17th, leaving them uncertain about their employment prospects. A spokesperson for Frasers Group plc, the owners of House of Fraser, expressed regret over the closure and thanked the staff for their dedication. The company is committed to finding new roles within the group for affected employees.
This closure is part of a larger trend for House of Fraser, as stores in Solihull, Guildford, and Cardiff have also closed their doors in recent years. The future of the retail chain remains uncertain.
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