Tesco is closing its Express store in Milnrow

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Milnrow Shopping Precinct

Tesco is to close its store at Milnrow Shopping Precinct on Newhey Road on 25 November with the loss of 17 jobs.

Milnrow and Newhey councillor Neil Butterworth says shoppers are "devastated" at the news.

Councillor Butterworth said: "This is a real blow to our area. Tesco's have been in the village for many years and is really popular. I'm writing to Tesco for more details why they have decided to pull out.

"I am also concerned about so many local people losing their jobs. I am asking the company to make every effort to find its employees jobs in its other stores in the area.

"Many people have told me they are puzzled as it's such a busy store and must have been profitable.

"We are fortunate in that we have other major retailers in Milnrow, notably the Co-op and Aldi, but this is still a bitter blow.

"It also leaves a big hole in the shopping precinct and I'm worried about the future viability of it and the future of other shops there."

Councillor Butterworth has also asked the Council to work with the owners of the shopping precinct to seek assurances about its future and to offer support to let the vacant unit.

Councillor Butterworth added: "The council offers business rates reductions for new shops opening up in Rochdale town centre. I want the same for Milnrow and Newhey."

"As the local councillor I am passionate about Milnrow and Newhey. My priority is to make sure we have thriving shops and businesses and a prosperous future for all our residents. We can all do our bit by shopping locally."