The Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council, Cllr Huw David has described news that high street retailer Wilko has had to appoint administrators after failing to secure a deal for the company as being ‘a blow to the high street’.
Cllr David said: “The news that Wilko has formally appointed administrators comes as a heavy blow to the high street.
“The decision means that more than 12,000 jobs in Wilko stores across the UK are at risk of being lost, including those of many loyal workers at local stores in Bridgend and Maesteg town centres.
“These stores have been a vital part of the economies of our town centres, and to lose them would be a big blow.
“While there is still much speculation at the moment and very little certainty, these workers are facing redundancy unless the administrators can secure a rescue deal with new investors which will retain these important local jobs and stores.
“Together with our partners, we remain in close touch with the union GMB and Welsh Government, and hope that Wales’ unique REACT scheme is put in place to help people find alternative work or retrain to learn new skills.
“In the meantime, Bridgend County Borough Council’s Employability Team stands ready to offer direct help and advice to affected staff, and all partners will be working closely together over the coming weeks to offer their full support.”