On Tuesday 13 October Marks and Spencer announced it intended to close its Simply Food store on Alton High Street in January 2027. Cllr Robert Mocatta, EHDC's Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Prosperity, has expressed his disappointment and pledged that the council would work with the site owners to work out a sustainable future for the site.
He said: "This is clearly disappointing news for Alton. M&S has been a familiar presence on the High Street for many years, and we know residents and visitors will be sorry to see it go.
“Nationally, retailers are under significant pressure at the moment, with the increasing cost of doing business combined with caution among consumers. We will be following up with M&S to understand the implications of the decision and the reasons behind it.
“As the local planning authority, we will work closely with Damian Hinds MP, the town council, other local authorities and the landlord to find the best possible solution for the site in the future.”