Morrisons West Bromwich to shut at end of March

Morrisons first announced it was axing the store, on The Ringway, earlier this year, claiming it was no longer viable.

And officials from the supermarket giant today confirmed a date of March 29 had now been set for when the store would close.

Business leaders in the region have already described the closure as 'a blow' for both the town and the Black Country as a whole.

Residents have also spoken of their surprise at the loss of the supermarket.

Spokesman for the Morrisons, James French, said axing the store was not a decision the firm had taken lightly.

"We have looked extremely carefully at whether the store can be turned around but unfortunately we cannot see a way of making it profitable," he said.

"Therefore I can confirm the store will close on March 29."

A 90-day consultation has been taking place on the closure.

Sandwell Council leader Councillor Darren Cooper said: "It is disappointing that Morrisons has decided to pull out of West Bromwich.

"However we will be working with the owners of that unit to ensure it is not empty long.

"It is tough trading conditions at the moment. At the moment we have some new businesses coming into the town and are losing some.

"It is sad Morrisons has taken the decision to leave."

UKIP parliamentary candidate for West Bromwich East Steve Latham said he was disappointed a way had not been found to keep the store running.

"It is a shame when so much money has been pumped into the area that a store the size and status of Morrisons has to close," he said.

"I understand their financial woes but do wonder what affect the building of Tesco so near and the New Square development has had on the decision to close.

"Certainly the High Street and the Kings and Queens Square in the town seem to have had life sucked from them.

"I hope the High Street and both squares return to being vibrant shopping areas and every effort is made to support shopkeepers and traders."

Mr Latham said a 'firm and fair policy' needed to be developed in terms of car parking charges and appropriate parking areas provided.

He also believed there needed to be a discussion on rent and rates, short term leases and flexibility in agreements.

When closure of the supermarket was first announced, Black Country Chamber of Commerce president Ninder Johal said: "This is disappointing news for the Black Country in the back drop of a local economy and employment that is increasing quarter by quarter."