Ballyclare Poundland store to close early March

In a statement issued to the Newtownabbey Times, a spokesperson for Poundland said: “We’re as disappointed as our colleagues and customers to be closing our store in Main Street, Ballyclare, on March 6. Sadly, our lease has expired.

“Where we close a store, it goes without saying we always work hard to look after colleagues directly affected.”

The spokesperson declined to comment how many people are employed at the Ballyclare store.

South Antrim MP Paul Girvan has expressed disappointment following the retailer’s announcement.

The DUP representative said: “The decision by Poundland to close their Ballyclare store will be a huge blow to the town centre, the local community and to the store’s dedicated workforce.

“Poundland plays an important role in Ballyclare’s retail offering and provides vital local employment.

“I will be raising my concerns with the management of Poundland regarding their decision and will be calling for them to ensure that staff are offered suitable alternative employment.

“There is no doubt that Covid-19 has had a devastating impact on our town centres and it is imperative now that the Finance Minister comes forward urgently with a comprehensive support package.

“I am calling on the Finance Minister to act immediately, before we suffer any further loses.”

The Newtownabbey Times reported in 2019 that a new Poundland store opened in the Abbey Centre on November 16 of that year. For more on this story, read here

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