M&S store in Banbury town centre to remain open to help people during coronavirus outbreak

Officials confirmed decision today (Thursday March 26) to keep the popular town centre store open.

John Turner, the M&S head of region for central, said: “Supporting communities and our customers during the current unprecedented health crisis is our absolute priority, so we have made the decision to delay the closure of our Banbury store."

The Marks and Spencer food and clothing store, a Castle Quay mainstay, was originally set to close on Saturday, April 18.

Mr Turner added: "We want to ensure that everyone has access to what they need in the coming weeks, so the store will continue to provide a full food offer."

The clothing and home areas of the store will be closed in line with government guidance during the coronavirus outbreak.

Mr Turner said: "The store will still close as planned in the future, but when the time is right to do so. We will keep the community updated as the situation evolves, but we want to reassure customers that we will remain open and available to them during this period.”

Reaction to the store's closure has been one of universal shock and despair with one Banbury resident setting up a change.org petition to persuade M&S to keep it open.

More than 2,500 people have signed it to date.

Banbury's elderly community have been particularly upset by the announcement of its closure as it is the only centrally located food store accessible by a large number of pensioners, with alternatives too far to walk for many.

It has been a town centre mainstay since 1982, opening in November of that year.

Cllr Tony Ilott, lead member for financial management and governance at Cherwell District Council, commented: “We’re pleased to announce that the Castle Quay branch of Marks & Spencer will remain open for the coming months, to support the local community through this challenging time.

"We have been working closely with Marks & Spencer to ensure that local residents have much needed access to daily necessities and this decision will allow them to continue to serve the local community, and the council to provide ongoing support to residents.

“While the majority of our stores have now closed in line with government measures surrounding COVID-19, essential retailers in Castle Quay Shopping Centre will remain open to provide access to vital products such as food and medical supplies, as permitted by the government.

“We’re proud to continue to serve our community and are committed to ensuring our centre remains a clean and safe place to visit for those purchasing essential products and services.”