Wolverhampton Marks & Spencer at risk of closure

Marks & Spencer said a proposal had been put forward to close the store on Dudley Street in Wolverhampton

Wolverhampton's Marks & Spencer store is at risk of closure, the firm has confirmed.

Calum Telford, regional manager at Marks & Spencer, said the closure was just a proposal at this stage but added the store at Dudley Street had been "performing less well for a long period of time".

He thanked customers for their support and said the brand's priority was "continuing conversations with colleagues", adding that the firm was working with City of Wolverhampton Council to find a site for a new store.

Mr Telford said: "If the proposals go ahead, we will offer them alternative roles at M&S wherever possible."

Discussing the future of the brand in Wolverhampton, the regional manager said it remained "committed to Wolverhampton".

He said it was "working closely" with City of Wolverhampton Council to find a "suitable alternative food location".

"This is part of our continued investment in the Black Country, with work already under way to modernise our Merry Hill store," added Mr Telford.

'Extremely heartened'

Councillor Chris Burden, council cabinet member for city development, jobs and skills, said he was "disappointed" by the news but fully understood M&S's "difficult decision".

He said the city council was "grateful" to meet M&S officials on Tuesday and said he was "extremely heartened" to hear about the brand's continued commitment to Wolverhampton.

Mr Burden added: "We have stressed we will work with them at pace to identify suitable locations that fit their new business model.

"In the meantime, we know how unsettling this will be for staff and the city council's Wolves at Work employment support team is poised to join forces with DWP and a range of city partners to support workers and their families."