Stockton North MP, Alex Cunningham, has expressed his anger over the announcement that Thorntons is to close its Stockton branch on 4 August – just a week before Marks and Spencer will close its doors after 117 years on Stockton High Street.
Following the announcement from M&S, Alex invited its Chief Executive to visit Stockton High Street to see how it has improved following a multi-million pound regeneration programme from Stockton Borough Council. Unfortunately, the invitation was turned down.
Responding to Thorntons announcement, Alex said:
It is disappointing that Thorntons is to leave Stockton High Street. Sadly, this announcement is an example of another short-sighted retailer putting short-term goals above anything else. Rather than quitting, Thorntons and M&S should be getting round the table with Stockton Borough Council to see how they can work together for the benefit of both their businesses, and the High Street.
Alex will be writing to the Chief Executive of Thorntons to set out his disappointment – and call for a rethink.
