The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
South Holland District Council has responded to the news that Hills Department Store is to close.
The store put out a statement today announcing it was to cease trading after decades in the town.
The statement was critical of South Holland District Council which has responded with its own statement.
A spokesperson for South Holland District Council said: “Firstly, it’s saddening to hear the news of Hills closing down in the New Year and the impact that will have on those who work there.
“We pledge our commitment to working alongside our partners to help those affected through this difficult and unsettling time.
“For the past few months our Economic Development team has been working with the owners to look at how they may be supported in moving to a more sustainable operating model, but unfortunately none of these proposals have yet been taken forward.
“Furthermore, South Holland District Council has also sought to provide substantial financial support to the business during 2020/21 in the form of rate reliefs and a non-repayable business grant in order to assist the company through a difficult period.
“The council’s offer of support to the business in looking at the means of safeguarding its future in the town remains in place. ”
Councillor Harry Drury added: “The council pledged its commitment earlier this year to a £500,000 ring-fenced fund to help improve the town centre.
“We renewed that pledge last week with a really positive and productive meeting with a host of town centre traders about how those funds can be best allocated.
“To confirm: as of this afternoon (Wednesday, October 7), no decision to grant an extension to Springfields shopping centre has been made. Members will be debating that tonight.”
