New Look to leave Weymouth town centre
The fashion retailer says it's not their choice
Weymouth high street's been dealt another blow.
Fashion retailer New Look are leaving the town centre.
However they say it's not their decision and the landlord of the building in New Bond Street has decided to exit the lease early.
In a statement to Greatest Hits Radio Dorset a New Look spokesperson said:
“Regrettably the New Look store in Weymouth will be closing in February after the landlord decided to exit the lease early. Whilst it was therefore not our decision to close the store, we are focusing on supporting our store colleagues and where possible finding alternative roles for them within the business.”
New Look entered a Company Voluntary Agreement in 2020 which means that in turn for their rents being reduced at their various stores around the country, landlords were given the ability to exit leases more easily, if they could prove they could secure better terms elsewhere.
Acting President of Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce, Rick Simmonds told Greatest Hits Radio Dorset:
"It has been such a part of Weymouth's heritage. It's been there on the high street for half a century and the company has been so much part of our town, so it's incredibly sad to see."
Dorset Chamber Chief Executive Ian Girling is hopeful the retailer will keep a presence in the seaside town.
He said:
"This is very sad news. The high street and retailers continue to face really challenge times, and I just hope a solution can be found, and we keep New Look on the high street in Weymouth."
A spokesperson for New Look has confirmed to Greatest Hits Radio Dorset there is no plan to close their Dorchester store which will continue trading as normal.