NEXT is to close its outlet in East Kilbride with a number of jobs thought to be at risk.
East Kilbride shopping centre has been dealt another blow after the retailer confirmed its Centre West store will be closing in 2024.
Lanarkshire Live reports the shutters will come down for the final time in January, putting jobs in jeopardy.
It comes just three months after a new £100 million plan was revealed by South Lanarkshire Council that would see more than a third of the town centre demolished.
The proposal would cut retail space at the shopping centre by 42%.
Next said it planned to try to move permanent staff to neighbouring stores although one worker told the Daily Record relocation options were “very poor” and added: “Lots of us are being left without a job.”
A spokesperson for the retailer said: “I can confirm that the store will be closing in the New Year, and that the store staff have been made aware.
“Efforts are being made for permanent staff members to be moved to neighbouring stores where positions are available.”
A number of big names have been forced to close their stores in the town in recent years, including Debenhams, Top Shop and Zara.
A spokesperson for the EK shopping centre said: “Since Covid, and after the closure of Debenhams, Next have operated as an outlet store at EK and have remained in occupation on very flexible terms.
“Sadly, following an internal business review, Next have determined to reduce their estate of discount outlets and the decision has been taken to shut the doors at East Kilbride.
“We very much hope that, as plans progress for the repurposing of EK in accordance with the masterplan vision, Next will consider returning to the scheme in a new and improved unit.”
