79 jobs at risk as M&S announces plans to close Parkgate store

RETAIL giant M&S has today (Tuesday) announced plans to shut its Parkgate Shopping store — putting 79 jobs at risk.

Bosses said it had been a “difficult decision” and they were now consulting with colleagues on the proposed closure.

Staff were told of the decision today and a spokeswoman said the consultation would “take as long as it needs to”.

In total, 17 of M&S's 1,043 stores have been earmarked for closure, including those in Huddersfield and Hull. The Parkgate branch is the only South Yorkshire store under threat.

The plans are part of M&S’s programme to "reshape its UK store estate". 

Paula Varley, M&S head of region for South Yorkshire, said: “Proposing to close M&S Rotherham has been a difficult decision. 

“Over the coming weeks we’ll be speaking to all of our colleagues about what is best for them and they will be fully supported during this process. 

“We remain dedicated to our customers and, if the proposal goes ahead, we will continue to serve them from our other stores in the region including M&S Meadowhall.”

Other nearby outlets include a M&S Food store at Cortonwood and M&S stores at Barnsley and Meadowhall.