'˜Tesco need to make a pledge to Cleveleys'

The Cleveleys Metro store, which has been a prominent feature of the town’s high street since the early 1970s, has been the subject of negotiations between the shop chain and the landlord.

But the two parties have not been able to come to an agreement over the rent at the Victoria Road West site.

It will close later this year.

Blackpool North and Cleveleys MP Paul Maynard said: “I’m disappointed to hear the news about Tesco Metro in Cleveleys. I have been in contact with the company and have been promised that every effort will be made to place staff in other stores and give them all necessary support.

“This will clearly have an impact on the high street and on choice for shoppers in Cleveleys.

“I have already contacted the Chief Executive of Tesco UK asking the company to make a commitment to Cleveleys, even if it is not in the current location.”

The company could not confirm how many members of staff are employed at the branch or how many of them will be re-deployed in other branches.”

Councillors described the news as “devastating”.