Larne town centre Greggs not reopening following coronavirus lockdown

A concerned relative of an employee contacted this newspaper to say approximately 10 full-time and part-time jobs were under threat after staff were informed the Main Street eatery would remain closed.

The premises were shut to the public at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in March.

In a statement, a Greggs spokesperson said: “We can confirm that sadly our Larne shop will not be reopening.

“A full list of our shops in the local area can be found by using our Shop Finder which is available at greggs.co.uk”

Commenting on the development, East Antrim DUP MLA Gordon Lyons said: “This is very disappointing news for Larne and in particular the employees and my thoughts go out to them at this difficult time.

“Many businesses are struggling because of the effects of Covid, but I hope that others don’t have to go down this route.

“Better days will return and I hope that the Executive’s grant schemes, the furlough scheme and gradually relaxing of restrictions will help other businesses to reopen.

“I would encourage people in Larne and right across east Antrim to support those local businesses who are beginning to reopen so that we can keep jobs and choice in the town.”

East Antrim UUP MLA John Stewart said his thoughts were with the staff and their families who are affected by this.

He added: “It is naturally very concerning to hear about a store closing on our local high street.

“Greggs was only a fairly recent addition to the Larne Main Street. Such a closure shows just how big an impact Covid-19 is having on so many businesses and sectors.

“The Northern Ireland Executive and Westminster government must do all it can to help businesses survive the very difficult months ahead.”

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