DEBENHAMS closing all 124 of its UK stores including the outlet on Eagles Meadow has been described as 'devastating news for Wrexham' by Plaid Cymru.

This week, JD Sports pulled out of rescue talks for the troubled department store chain Debenhams, putting 12,000 workers at risk.

It was the last remaining bidder for Debenhams which has been in administration since April, meaning it is likely Debenhams will soon disappear from High Streets across the nation.

Cllr Carrie Harper, of Plaid Cymru, said the store was the anchor store for the shopping complex, which has already seen many retail outlets close over the past couple of years.

She said: "This news is a terrible blow for workers at the store so close to Christmas. It also highlights the dangers facing our high streets, as many businesses struggle to survive through the Covid-19 crisis and the public health measures which limit capacity and demand.

"The prospect of losing an anchor store like Debenhams is a major blow to any town and particularly devastating for the staff, who must be supported by Debenhams at a time when our local economy can ill-afford further economic uncertainty.

"The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, including the closure of retail stores for prolonged periods has undoubtedly contributed to this announcement. Now more than ever, our towns need urgent and targeted government support to help them recover post-Covid.

"Plaid Cymru has proposed a series of measures to address the difficulties faced by our high streets and help rejuvenate town centres.

"These include a radical overhaul of business rates, providing high street firms with a more level playing than they currently face.

"Without practical solutions and an acknowledgment from government of the severity of the situation, then the outlook for our high streets will remain very bleak."