SDLP Councillor Angela Dobbins says she is saddened to see the end of an era with the closure of a store in Culmore next month.
Said Cllr Dobbins: “The shop in Culmore, now known as Centra Culmore has been trading for well over 30 years now. It has passed through various owners and franchises and it is very sad to learn that it will finally stop trading in March.
“I’ve been in contact with the owners, Musgrave, and they have informed me that every effort has been made to keep trading but the lease expires shortly and unfortunately it is clear that it is no longer financially sustainable to continue trading so they will not be renewing the lease.
“The store will close on Thursday, March 3.
“Musgrave have offered redundancy or redeployment to other stores to existing staff, one of which has been there 25 years.
“Centra Culmore also houses a post office which will remain open in the short term.
“The post office plays a vital role in the community, and I am hopeful that further negotiations will allow the post office and its services to remain within Culmore for the people of Culmore and surrounding area.
“I am devastated by this news.
“This store has been heavily involved within our local community over the years giving contribution to our local school sports days and the Culmore Community Partnership events.
“The former manager accommodated the first ever village Christmas tree switch on and has provided Santa and the electricity costs every year since.
“Centra Culmore also participated as a collection point of toiletries for NHS during lockdown.
“Quite a number of local youth have ’cut their working teeth’ working part time in this store whilst being at school or university including my daughters.
“It has played such a pivotal role in this community and it will be greatly missed. I convey my best wishes to all the staff for their future,” added Cllr Dobbins.
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