Kieran McCarthy MLA stated: “Marks and Spencer’s announcement that they are closing some of their ‘Simply Food’ stores is very bad news for Newtownards.
“The planned loss of 37 jobs will be a real blow to the local economy. This comes at a time when local people are facing severe financial difficulty, with living costs at a very high level.
“These revelations come following the recent loss of 29 other jobs in the town with the closure of the local Woolworths store. It is wake up call for the Department of Environment to make a positive decision on the Castlebawn planning application, which could provide a major retail and employment boost for Newtownards.
“I am calling on the relevant Stormont Ministers to ensure that those affected by local job losses are given sufficient assistance in finding new employment or re-training following this devastating news.”
ENDS