Primark has confirmed it will be closing one of its town centre stores.
The clothing retailer is set to shut its shop in The Orchards Shopping Centre in Dartford, in the new year – its first branch closure in over a decade.
Primark in Bluewater Shopping Centre
An exact date has not been given, but it is expected to cease trading sometime after Christmas.
A spokesperson for Primark said the decision has been made due to the repair work the building requires.
Primark Director of Sales UK South and South East, Philippa Nibbs said: “Following careful consideration, we’re proposing to close our Dartford store in the new year.
“This proposal has been informed by the significant and extensive repair work the building requires.
“Given its close proximity to two other Primark stores, the level of investment it needs simply isn’t viable.
The opening of Primark at Bluewater in 2019. Picture: Primark
“Our priority is our colleagues impacted by this news, and we will be supporting them as they now enter a period of consultation.
“We know this will be disappointing news for our customers and the wider Dartford community too, and we are very grateful for their support over the years.
“Our store remains open for now, and we’ll communicate further updates in due course.”
The clothing retailer already has branches at Bluewater shopping centre in Greenhithe and at The Broadway in Bexleyheath – both of which offer a large Primark range.
Due to the smaller size of the Dartford store, footfall has been impacted by the arrival of both, says Primark.
The branch has 53 employees. The fashion brand says it will explore all options to support them, including redeployment where possible.