Hexham residents have been discussing future plans of the Iceland premises on Fore Street, which will close this year on April 22.

In September last year, the property's landlord had submitted a planning application to Northumberland County Council seeking permission to subdivide the property into two retail units.

The application was granted by Northumberland County Council this week.

Here is what you have said about the recent news.

Caroline Thompson Watson said: "It is such a shame losing Iceland."

Peter Younger agrees but is looking into the future as he believes the premises could be filled with more charity shops. 

This would add to the amount of charity shops in Hexham, which is more than 20 at this moment in time.

However, Victoria Todd is hoping for more local businesses to fill the unit but is doubtful due to rising costs.

She said: “The proposal is beneficial as the creation of two retail units from one, will increase the retail offer for shoppers in the town centre."

"Only if there’s 2 businesses wanting to occupy them."

On the otherhand, after the news of the shop closing, Rochelle Dodd is worried about tourism in the town. She adds: "There will be nothing to come in to Hexham for."

Stefan Yeatman is also worried about the future of any business in the town. He said:

"Yeah two potential retail units, except if a company like Iceland cannot make a profit from the location you reckon a retail shop will?

The same old issues prevail, there's no where to  park."

Liam Anthony Cousin disagrees with Stefan Yeatman, who adds: "There is plenty of parking, you’ve just got to walk a mile."

Also disagreeing with Stefan, Gary Jesus Wilson adds: "It was making a profit but the lease was up."

Richard Ford was reminicising about what used to be the popular shops in Hexham.

He said: "Bring back Woolworths with the pick n mix stand, best shop ever to grace Fore Street."