Stroud Chamber of Trade leader Tony Davey has expressed his sadness at the impending closure of Cheltenham’s flagship store.
An icon of Cheltenham’s town centre is set to close after centuries of trading. Cavendish House, which has been on The Promenade since 1823, has been home to House of Fraser for decades but the company has announced its closure.
“It is very sad to see such an iconic store in the heart of Cheltenham so close to closure,” said Mr Davey.
“My thoughts are first with those who stand to lose their jobs, so early in the new year. This must be a very worrying time for them and their families.
“The closure announcement has, understandably, resulted in wide responses across social media; the history of Cavendish House holds so many good memories for so many, myself included. It is, however, yet another victim of the challenges faced by large chains and its rapid decline has not gone unnoticed by many who have shopped there recently.
“My next concern is how the site will be utilised, preserved where necessary, and brought into use. Cheltenham, in line with so many towns across the country, is littered with the tombstones of failed national businesses and it is in the interests of Cheltenham communities that the building is brought into beneficial use with minimal delay, and not left to rot.”
