Matalan Announces Permanent Closure of Colne Store with Major Discount Sale
In a significant development for retail in the region, major UK fashion and homeware chain Matalan has confirmed the permanent closure of its North Valley Retail Park branch in Colne. The store will shut its doors for good on March 7, with the company initiating a substantial sale offering discounts of up to 50 percent off products in the lead-up to the shutdown.
Details of the Closure and Staff Support
Matalan has not provided a specific reason for this particular closure, but a spokesperson emphasized the company's commitment to supporting affected colleagues. "Our priority now is to support our colleagues," the spokesperson stated. "We are working closely with all those impacted and, where possible, exploring alternative positions within the company."
The brand expressed gratitude to its local customer base, noting, "We have thoroughly enjoyed serving customers at the retail park and hope they will continue to shop with us at our nearby Accrington or Blackburn stores." This closure follows another recent announcement regarding the shutdown of Matalan's Station Business Park branch on James Street, which is also scheduled to close on March 7.
Connection to Carlisle Redevelopment Project
The closure in Colne coincides with broader redevelopment plans affecting Matalan locations. In Carlisle, the store's impending shutdown is directly linked to the Carlisle Station Gateway redevelopment scheme. This project involves the planned demolition of the retail park to make way for a brand new southern station entrance, complete with a car park and a public square known as George Square.
A Matalan spokesperson explained, "Our Carlisle store will close in March due to the planned redevelopment of the site. We have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the community in Carlisle and are evaluating potential relocation opportunities." The redevelopment will entirely replace the current Matalan site, with construction work already visible around The Griffin and Costa, marking the initial phases of the station overhaul.
Impact on Customers and Future Access
For customers in the affected areas, the closures mean reduced access to Matalan stores. In Carlisle, the closest alternative branches are now located in Dumfries and Workington, which may inconvenience local shoppers. The redevelopment work, initially earmarked to begin last autumn at Court Square in the city centre, is part of a larger effort to revitalize the station area and enhance public infrastructure.
As the retail landscape evolves, Matalan's moves reflect ongoing shifts in the sector, with store closures often tied to urban redevelopment and strategic adjustments. The company continues to assess relocation possibilities while managing the transition for both employees and loyal customers during this period of change.
