RETAIL giant Argos is to close it long-established Burnley town centre store.

However its staff have been offered alternative jobs in the outlet on the Princess Way Retail Park or at Sainsbury’s in Active Way.

Charter Walk shopping centre general manager Chris Gribben has described the closure decision as ‘sad’.

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But he said the decision was ‘understandable’ as Argos, which had two stores in the town, had recently been taken over by Sainsbury’s which also had a major outlet in Burnley.

The Market Square Argos store, that has been trading since 1990, will close its doors on Friday, January 20.

The news follows the decision of major discount clothing chain Primark to open a store in Curzon Street, adjacent to Next, later this year.

An Argos spokesman said: “We can confirm that the Argos in Burnley Market Square is due to close on Friday, January 20.

“We are currently in a consultation period with store colleagues and, where possible, are supporting them in finding alternative roles in neighbouring Argos stores.”

Cllr Gordon Birtwistle, lead of the Liberal Democrat group on Burnley Council, said: “This is a shame.

“That Argos branch has been there for many, many years.

“It’s good news they are keeping their other store in Burnley and finding alternative employment for their very helpful staff.

“However it is bad news for older customers and those without transport who use the Charter Walk outlet.

“They will not find its as easy to get to their other Argos.

“Burnley town centre has been doing well recently, but this decision is a bit of a blow.”

Mr Gribben said: “I am obviously sad at this decision but it not a great surprise after Sainsbury’s took over Argos last September and there are two other outlets for the new company in the town.

“I am pleased that the company is hoping to relocate the staff to the other branch or the Sainsbury’s store.”

“The Markey Square Argos has been there a long time, certainly since I came to Charter Walk 13-years-ago.

“Obviously we are hopeful of being able to let the unit, although it is a strangely set out one at the moment.

“We are always optimistic and were very pleased with the news Primark is coming which was announced in December.”