Barnsley jewellers ‘forced’ to close in the New Year due to demolition plans

A family-owned jewellery store in Barnsley is set to close its doors in the New Year following plans to demolish parts of the town centre.

Some retailers have told the BBC that they have had to close their businesses due to a “lack of council support” in relation to the £41m town centre renovation. The scheme will see areas such as Barnsley Markets demolished.

Third-generation H Warner, which is run by Keith Warner, said it will have to close in the New Year instead of relocate. He told the BBC that regular store customers had been “crying” after hearing the news of its closure.

“My grandfather started the jewellery business with a few watches and trinkets. People have been coming in crying because we’re not going to be here any more. Warner’s is an institution. I want to cry. It’s tearful,” he said.

The BBC notes that the local council has consulted businesses which were interested in relocating.

David Shepherd, the council’s economic regeneration director, said: “We’ve given all due legal notification to businesses and had three separate consultations over several months to make sure businesses are aware.

“We’ve worked hard with many independent retailers affected as a result of the town centre development and of course we understand the concerns and implications these retailers face.

“Some businesses have successfully managed to relocate into other shops within the town centre, with our support.”