It's the "end of an era" for Darlington as the town centre's flagship House of Fraser store announces it will close later this year.
Frasers Group, which owns the former Binns store on High Row, revealed today (September 19) that it would be closing the doors for good in December, ahead of Christmas.
The retail chain, which has been a staple in the town since August 1922, said the closure was due to the landlord's decision to terminate the lease.
The news comes just months after it was revealed the future of the store in the town was uncertain after the building was put up for sale.
Councillor Chris McEwan, deputy leader of Darlington Council and cabinet member for Economy, said the news was "extremely disappointing".
He said: “The closure of any business is always a shame, but the loss of such a long-standing department store as Binns, is extremely disappointing.
"It marks the end of an era for the community it has served for generations. Binns has been more than just a place to shop. It has become a landmark, a symbol of local identity.
"While the economic landscape is constantly evolving, this loss will be felt deeply by both employees and customers alike.
"We thank everyone who has worked in Binns, over the years, for the lasting legacy they have contributed to over many years.
"The health of the town centre remains one of this council’s top priorities, and we will seek to hold productive discussions with any new occupier of the premises to understand their plans for the building moving forward.”
Conservative councillor and and leader of the oppositon at Darlington Council Jonathan Dulston said he was saddened to hear the news.
He said: "I am really disappointed to see another business closing in Darlington. Binns has been a part of our high street for generations, and it's really sad to see such a large presence leave the high street following other closures over recent years."
'Significant blow'
Lola McEvoy, Labour MP for Darlington, has also spoken out on the news.
She said: “Like everyone in our town, I'm saddened to hear about the end of House of Fraser at Binns. As a girl I used to love window shopping and spending my pocket money on hot chocolates at the cafe. The building is an iconic part of Darlington's proud history.
“My immediate thoughts are with the staff who will be hugely concerned about their jobs, particulary in the run-up to Christmas.
“I'll do everything I can to advocate for Darlington and engage anyone interested in taking over this amazing historic building. With its superb and diverse range of independent shops, cafes and bars, our town centre remains an ideal place to do business and have a great day out.”
Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen added: “The closure of Binns in Darlington Town Centre is a significant blow, this iconic store has been at the heart of Darlington for generations, and its loss will be felt by many.
"The council must act urgently to support our local businesses and reinvigorate the town. Reintroducing free car parking is a necessary step to give shops in Darlington a fighting chance."
'Not exactly a surprise'
Award-winning retail consultant Graham Soult has also given his verdict on the news.
"It is not exactly a surprise," he admitted. "It's worth remembering that House of Fraser was only rescued in the first place after Sports Direct bought the business.
"Under the old House of Fraser owners, it was due to close in 2018, and it has had six more years than it would have done.
"I guess that both the landlord and people have had time to think about what to do with the building after. I would be surprised if the building was kept empty.
"It is likely that, if the landlord is doing that, they would have some kind of plans for the building," he added. "It does suggest that plans may be afoot.
"It is of course worth mentioning that as a company Frasers have already invested further in Darlington too, with the opening of the Flannels store."
A full statement from Frasers, which runs the House of Fraser brand, said: “It is with regret that we announce House of Fraser Darlington will be closing in December 2024, due to the landlord's decision to terminate the lease as they require the unit back before Christmas.
"Our customers can continue to shop the world’s most aspirational brands at Frasers.com, or access more brands from the Group’s ecosystem at Sports Direct Darlington and FLANNELS Darlington at the Cornmill Shopping Centre.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff for their hard work and dedication. Where possible, we are committed to finding new roles within the Group for staff.”
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