Martin Vickers - "Wilko crucial to vitality of avenue"
THE proposed closure of the Wilko branch in Cleethorpes has been raised in Parliament.
Resort MP Martin Vickers was as taken by surprise as everyone by the announcement on Monday that the St Peter's Avenue would be closing in October.
In a Commons debate on Thursday, he said: "One of the familiar names on high streets up and down the country is Wilko.
"It is crucial to the vitality of St Peter’s Avenue in Cleethorpes, but unfortunately the company has announced the store’s possible closure which is of obvious concern, particularly to the staff.
"The Government have done a great deal to support our high streets, but this is clearly another example of the difficulties that companies are facing.
"Could I urge the Leader of the House to consider a debate to further explore what can be done to ensure that companies such as Wilko retain their outlet in Cleethorpes?"
However, the reply from Leader of the House, Jacob Rees-Mogg,was more patronising than supportive.
He responded: "As always, my hon. Friend is a great champion for his constituency.
"I can tell him what the Government have been doing.
"The £4.8 billion levelling-up fund includes help to regenerate town centres and high streets.
"Considerable measures have been taken to spur innovation and investment across the country and help business to build back better from the pandemic."
He added: "The support that my hon. Friend gives by encouraging people to use their high street and go to the shops will also be important in maintaining a competitive high street."
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