ROLLINGSTOCK, the factory outlet, which opened in November 1996 just off the East Lancs, will close on March 20 due to disappointing sales and the inability to fully let all the units.

The centre was acquired by MEPC in September last year as part of the acquisition of PSIT plc, but MEPC say that after careful consideration it was decided to close the outlet.

Paul Knight, MEPC's factory outlet manager, explained: "The format of Rollingstock is not ideal and, since opening, the centre has never been fully let and has produced disappointing sales.

"We are already considering alternative uses for the site which we hope will bring new employment opportunities.

"We remain fully committed to the area through our ownership of Church Square shopping centre in St Helens which recently underwent a £5 million refurbishment."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.