AN SNP MSP has commented on the “incredibly difficult” and imminent closure of a Scottish shopping centre.
We previously told how Elgin’s St Giles Shopping Centre is set to be completely closed by January 20.
It is home to a range of stores, including a Waterstones, Works, Subway, O2, EE, Argos and more.
Retailers had reportedly been considering a legal challenge against the closure.
Commenting, MSP for Moray Richard Lochhead said: “The imminent closure of St Giles is incredibly difficult for staff and businesses affected and I pay tribute to the Elgin BID and Moray Chamber of Commerce teams who have been working flat out to find alternative premises.
“We now need absolute clarity from the centre’s owners as to what happens from Monday onwards because the centre is in a prime location in the heart of the town and everyone is wondering what happens next.
“I urge the owners to urgently engage with the community representatives as a matter of priority.
“We also need the Moray Council to step up to the plate and work with partners to do all it can to secure the future for the St Giles site.
“Elgin has a bright future as a shopping centre and destination with the transition already underway and multi-million pound projects getting off the ground as part of the growth deal and other projects funded by the Scottish and UK Governments.”
The Press and Journal also reported that businesses said they are facing costs stretching to thousands of pounds as they rush to move out of the centre.
The National has approached Moray Council for further comment.
