The Spar store in Carryduff Photo Credit: Google Maps
The owners of a Spar store in Co Down said they are “devastated” after confirming they will be closing their doors for the final time tomorrow.
The store in Carryduff on the Ballynahinch Road said a dispute over parking spaces has left them unable to survive the “competitive retail environment in Carryduff”.
The store will close for the final time at 6pm on Christmas Eve – with the family having operated the shop for 17 years in the area.
“It is with deep regret that we confirm that Spar Carryduff will be closing at 6pm on 24th December 2025 and will not reopen,” they wrote on social media.
“This is something we’d hoped to avoid and have done our utmost best endeavours to fight against, but unfortunately the business is unable to continue and has been forced to close.
“The Post Office will be closing at 11am on 24th Dec.
“This is as a result of the increase in demand for the already limited parking spaces outside the shop. With a competitive retail environment in Carryduff, we were just unable to survive this.
“We are devastated for our staff, our family, as we were a small local family business, and our wonderful loyal customers, who continued to support us during what has been a very difficult 21 months.
“Thank you for your support over the last 17 years. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
The Spar store in Carryduff Photo Credit: Google Maps
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The businesses was offered widespread support under the announcement, with one woman writing: “Very sorry to hear this. The closure of the Spar and Post Office will have a detrimental effect on local people, particularly the young, elderly and those who don’t drive.”
Another said: “I am so sorry to hear this. I use the Spar a lot and always found the staff so friendly and helpful.”
Moneyrea Primary and Nursery School added: “So sorry to read this sad news Alan and Allison. You have provided sterling service to your local community, not least during Covid when you ran a delivery service or in your support of local schools.
“On behalf of all at Moneyrea Primary School and Nursery we wish you and the boys a Happy Christmas and success and happiness in whatever you choose to do next.”