Proposed closure of the M&S store, Maiden's Walk, Hexham

Marks and Spencer announced to its staff it was considering proposals to close the Maiden's Walk store due to changing shopping habits in a statement issued on February 27.

The announcement follows the news earlier this year that M&S plans to close dozens of stores UK-wide over the next five years, which is hoped will save the business millions of pounds.

Philip Barker-Thomson, M&S regional manager, said: “Shopping habits are changing, so we’re rotating our store estate to make sure we have the right stores with the right space to offer customers a brilliant shopping experience. As part of this transformation, we have today announced to colleagues our proposal to close the M&S Hexham store at Maiden's Walk.

“Our priority now is to talk to our colleagues about what this announcement means for them. Should the proposals go ahead, we will offer them alternative roles with M&S wherever possible.

“Over the last year alone, we have invested £13 million in our stores in the North East, including a full renewal of our store in Newcastle city centre and the upcoming opening of our new Washington Galleries store later this spring.

“We would like to thank all our customers who have shopped in the store, and we will be working hard to keep serving them in our other stores across the North East and online at marksandspencer.com."

Derek Kennedy, mayor of Hexham, said: "It's a big shock for Hexham and for the workforce. This is part of a strategic M&S plan, not just in Hexham, but it is very disappointing Hexham has been selected because it's a fine store we're all proud of. 

"You always get excellent service in M&S so it's heartbreaking for them. They sell high-quality food and the quality of clothing is really good, it's just so disappointing that the removal of that store for Hexham is bad news. It is really upsetting for the closure."

Suzanne Fairless-Aitken, Hexham town councillor for Hexham East, said: "It's really sad, but clearly a national move by M&S despite their amazing food sales at Christmas.

"It's a real shame, as Marksies is one of my favourite food shops in Hexham, and my nana used to always shop there for our Sunday tea treats, but I'm sure the site will be filled soon - as is proving to be the case with other turnovers recently in the town. It looks like jobs will also be offered to staff within the company so that is reassuring."

Penny Grennan, town councillor for Gilesgate, said: "The closure of M&S will be a sad loss to the town. I hope that the staff can be redeployed and that there is no loss of jobs. It is always sad when a business leaves the town and I hope that the site is occupied soon by an equivalent business. This is the second food outlet to close in the top part of the town which is a concern."

Northumberland County Council Leader Glen Sanderson said: “We are saddened to learn of these proposals and our thoughts are with all the staff affected. The closure of any business is disappointing, and clearly M&S is one of the bigger retailers in Hexham.

"The loss of any jobs will be keenly felt, particularly by those who work there and their families. We understand companies some­times have to take difficult decisions, and we note M&S has pledged to support those whose jobs are under threat, which is encouraging. As a council, we will also work to see what support can be offered to those impacted by this announcement."

Cllr Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South, said: "Many residents from east Tynedale including Prudhoe really enjoy visiting the Hexham store, which for some was a weekly ritual. My thoughts are with the staff. I will be contacting M&S management to discuss other opportunities for the company to maintain a presence in Tynedale."

Hexham MP Guy Opperman was contacted for comment.