NORTH Wales’ last remaining Homebase store has announced when it will be closing.

The Leader previously reported that signs went up outside the retail unit in Mold announcing its closure, meaning the nearest store will be on the Wirral.

The company has since announced they will be officially closing in the summer of this year.

They added: “Our store in Mold will be closing in June 2020. Until then, we’re ready to continue serving our customers in the local community.

“We will also support our team members and help them find their next job.”

Business and Regeneration Officer Joanna Douglas told the Leader that this will be a ‘blow to the town’ and is ‘disappointing to hear’

She said: “It’s disappointing to hear they are closing, having such a store in the town but there is a lot of interest in Mold at the moment. I’m hopeful there will be new owners for that in the near future.

“Homebase have been reconstructing their business and unfortunately there isn’t another in North Wales, it will be a blow for Mold, but there is a lot of interest for the area.

“Mold has been shortlisted for the Great British High Street awards and Welsh Government is recognising us for retailers in the town.

“It’s that time of year where people are reflecting what they are doing and where they go next.

“I think local agents and people are looking to expand in Mold and although there is that fear from the Homebase announcement about being a blow to the town and needing to keep people in the town, there is interest here. It is upsetting but there are other places around for items they need.”

Joanna said that Mold has the lowest vacancy rate compared to other areas and is hopeful the closure will not affect the town.

She added: “Research on high streets show they are very much wanted and needed, it’s about economy. High streets are critical to the economy.

“We are urging people to support local business and the high street because it is the heart of the community.”