TOWN centre trading has been dealt another hammer blow as plans were revealed to close down the H&M store in the Royals.

A second H&M just yards away in Southend High Street will stay open, bosses at the clothing retailer have stressed.

The move to shut the Royals store comes after Debenhams announced closure plans and Primark moved to the old BHS store in the High Street.

Shoppers and community leaders raised concerns and worries for the town centre.

Mum-of-three Sheree Wilson, 31, of Southend said: “It’s such a shame and doesn’t leave too much else left at the centre now.

“I feel so sorry for people who are facing losing their jobs especially at this time it’s just so dreadful for them.

“It doesn’t look good for the town centre and businesses and I worry we could see more shops leave too.”

Derek Jarvis, Tory spokesman for business, culture and tourism, added: “It’s quite worrying for the town centre especially as we are looking for businesses to be sustained as we come out of the Covid lockdown.

“I think other businesses will be worried about this but it’s space that could be used for an indoor market or specialist store.”

Last October, Primark moved from the centre to re-open a new landmark store in the former BHS site in the High Street.

However, home furnishing chain Dunelm later revealed plans for a store at the Royals, which gave fresh hope of a town centre resurgence.

Cheryl Nevin, Labour councillor for Milton ward, said thoughts are with those who face losing their jobs.

She said: “I hope the shop will stay and it’s very sad we could lose them as businesses are about to have restrictions lifted. I feel so sorry for people who could lose their jobs.”

Suzanne Gloyne, manager of Southend Business Improvement District, hoped the store couldstay.

She said: “We would obviously be disappointed to see this store leave our town but remain hopeful that an agreement can still be made.”

An H&M spokesman said: “I can confirm that our colleagues are currently in consultations about the potential closure of the store in the Royals, Southend.

“We are working to support our colleagues at this time. I will be sure to update you as soon as we have a final decision on this particular store.”

The Royals refused to comment.