Dunnes Storesto close branch

Cllr Darryl Wilson said that the Church Street store had been a part of Ballymoney’s town centre economy since 1980.

Speaking to the Times, Cllr Wilson said: “I was bitterly disappointed to learn that Dunnes stores are to close their Ballymoney branch in the near future after being contacted by concerned members of staff.

“In recent months the town centre has seen a transformation for the better, with shopfronts being refurbished, and several new businesses opening up.

“Dunnes have been providing employment in the town for many decades now, the closure will have a detrimental impact on staff and shoppers alike.”

The Times contacted Dunnes Stores several times for a statement but at the time of going to press, the company had not responded.

A retailer in the town who did not want to be identified said: “I am very concerned about the emerging speculation that the Ballymoney branch of Dunnes Stores is to close. Dunnes have held a significant presence in Ballymoney’s town Centre for many years, and if this speculation turns out to be true, it would be a devastating blow for the staff concerned as well as the town as a whole.

“Particularly following on from all the recent improvements the town has witnessed including the shop front revitalisation scheme, the introduction of town WiFi and the launch of the town
masterplan.

“I would urge Dunnes Stores to swiftly make their position known. “