The announcement by Marks and Spencer that they are to close their Pontypridd store has been criticised by local politicians and traders.
The Pontypridd designer outlet has been earmarked for closure by Marks and Spencer, even though it is known to have attracted many customers and increased income for M&S’s shareholders since the 1930s. Marks and Spencer now say the Pontypridd store is no longer essential to their corporate strategy as it is now “losing money.”
Former town councillor for Treforest, Jonathan Bishop, is expected to stand for the Welsh Assembly in next year’s election as an independent candidate. “Pontypridd’s core market is providing access to discounted and rare goods that are not sold in Cardiff, Talbot Green, or Merthyr Tydfil,” he said. “With Lidl coming to the town, and the presence of discount stores like B&M and Poundstretcher, if Marks and Spencer were to see its store from this perspective, it can sell the products that it cannot sell elsewhere in the UK.”
Member of Parliament for Pontypridd, Owen Smith MP, was also critical of the closure plans. “The value we all place upon the store is demonstrated by the number of people who signed our petition objecting to the closure,” he said. “Marks and Spencer told us that they are consulting with staff on the closure, and they promised that our views would be considered as part of the consultation process.
“Alongside the Council, we offered every possible help available to persuade Mark and Spencer to reconsider their decision.
“I hope the retailer will take on board the offer of support from the Council and me to utilise funding available to support High Streets in Wales.”
One trader in the town believes it is essential for firms like Marks and Spencer to maintain a high street presence. “I like shopping in the high street rather than out of town, so want Marks and Spencer and other top stores to be in Ponty,” they said.
