Lockhart speaks out at Supervalu store closure

Mrs Lockhart said it was a real blow to the entire Banbridge community.

“I know many in Banbridge for whom the premises is a focal point going back to when it was previously a Wellworths store,” she said.

“For employees, many who I know personally, this is a stressful time given their lack of employment but we hope a buyer can be found for the premises to trade in its current form.

“In the last few years other businesses have used the premises such as the Post Office, Poundstretcher and gym facility.

“I am very pleased that these other facilities will remain. This is an integral part of the community and welcome the Post Office commitment to stay there.”

The Upper Bann representative said she would be meeting with the Chamber of Trade, Michael Donaghy in the coming days.

And she will also be speaking with Glyn Roberts from the Northern Ireland Independent Retail trade Association (NIIRTA) about this closure.

She went on to say, “It is imperative that these premises are not allowed to fall into disrepair through lack of use given their key location in the middle of what is a thriving local town.

“I have been engaged with other stakeholder in the town planning and we hope that this brings new business to Banbridge in the very near future.”