A petition has been launched to save Marks and Spencer in Leicester city centre

A petition has been launched to save the Marks and Spencer store in Leicester city centre. Entitled ‘Save Marks and Spencer’, the petition, launched by Christine Geschke, said the store was “vital to our local economy”.

The appeal was raised following the shock announcement earlier this month by the retail giant, which said it had taken the “tough decision” to “propose” to close the Gallowtree Gate store. The petition was created on Saturday, May 5, and has gathered dozens of signatures.

One signer wrote that M&S ​​was “a good cafe hangout, especially for our seniors”, and that it sold “good quality clothes” and offered a “convenient grocery store”. Another wrote: “The city center needs to be kept alive and vibrant for those who don’t have their own transport. Especially in a city like ours, who are encouraged to be green (sic)”.

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“I use this M&S regularly and can’t get to the one in Fosse Park as I don’t have a car,” wrote another petition backer, while a fourth posted: “M&S in Fosse Park it’s good, but it’s too far.”

Following the announcement of the closure, Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “Over the decades, Leicester, like other cities, has seen many big names come to the end of their lives. Many people will remember C&A, Lewis, BHS and Fenwick. While painful at the time, downtown has continued to be remarkably resilient, with several new businesses moving in to fill the gaps.

“While it is sad to see it go, it provides an opportunity for new life and business and the council’s investment in the town center over recent years has been very successful in attracting new growth and renewed confidence.”

Following the announcement, Marks and Spencer said its priority would be to speak to staff and let them know what the “proposed” closure means for them. He said the company would look to offer them roles within the business where possible.

The petition can be found on change.org. Just search for ‘Save Marks and Spencer’.