District Council meets M and S to encourage store closure rethink

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The meeting, which took place at Skegness Business Centre, focused on the need to keep the store in the town and the economic benefits Marks and Spencer brings to the local area both in terms of presence on the High Street and the confidence it gives to other investors.

Councillor Stephenson, explained: “In recent months major companies have shown an interest in setting up business in Skegness and we’ve made the case as to why Marks and Spencer should stay. We know Skegness is on the up and we firmly believe that this is not the time for them to consider withdrawing. Instead we would like to see them investing in the store to secure its future for the people of Skegness and the surrounding area, plus the many thousands of visitors that come here. Skegness is the fifth most visited place in England and last year saw a 26% increase in visitor numbers to around 949,000 people staying one night or more. We hope that Marks and Spencer will take into account what we’ve said to them today and review their decision so the store can remain open.”

Councillor Stephenson was joined by Portfolio Holder for Coastal Regeneration, Councillor Dick Edginton; Mayor of Skegness Cllr Sue Binch; Town Centre Manager, Stefan Krause; and key officers from Economic Development, Jonathan Burgess and Communications, James Gilbert.