12/07/09 - Borders Set To Close!

Breaking news....  Dreadful news!!!

Borders at the Northern Orbital is set to close on August 9th.  The store will be replaced by New Look.  An online petition has been organised.

www.gopetition.co.uk/online/29321.html

Swindon Advertiser article 13/07/09

BORDERS bookshop in Swindon is set to close next month to the dismay of many customers.

The large store based at the Orbital shopping centre will be replaced by a High Street clothes shop instead.

It is selling the lease of five of its stores, including those in Oxford Street and Swindon. An online petition objecting to the North Swindon store’s closure has already been set up.

Regular customer Emma Lord, of Abbey Meads, said: “I am really sad about this especially for the staff. They are so welcoming and friendly.

“It is a community venue and more than just a bookshop. They run so many events and it is a safe, comfortable place for people to go to.

“It draws people together. I have made friends in that bookshop. It is always busy when I am in there and there is a lovely atmosphere. The range of books is amazing not to mention the magazines.”

The store, which sponsored the Swindon Festival of Literature, confirmed it was selling the lease yesterday.

CEO Philip Downers said: “Several weeks ago, the directors of Borders UK confirmed to our staff and our key suppliers that we were exploring funding opportunities. As a consequence of this action, we have now agreed to sell the leasehold interest on five of our stores to a major fashion retailer. The five stores are Blanchardstown, Llantrisant, London Colney, Oxford Street, and Swindon.”

He added that staff were being consulted and supported by HR.

The north Swindon store also has a Starbucks and Paperchase inside but has not yet said what will happen to them. It also refused to confirm how many staff worked at its branch in the town or what clothes retailer will takes its place.

Mum-of-two Joanne Brown, of Abbey Meads, said: “I can’t believe Borders is turning into another clothes shop here.

“It is not what the area needs. Borders is wonderful and such an important part of the town especially in north Swindon. Having it makes the area different. We go there all the time.”

Councillor Justin Tomlinson, (Con, Abbey Meads) said: “As a local resident I am sorry and thoroughly disappointed that we will lose one of the best facilities at the northern Orbital centre.”

The online petition was set up on Saturday and already had 57 signatures at time of going to press. The Save Borders Swindon petition can be found at: www.gopetition.co.uk/online/29321.html