Statement from Brighton & Hove City Council on John Lewis announcement

Statement from Brighton & Hove City Council

“We share the disappointment that Brighton & Hove shoppers will no doubt feel at today’s announcement that John Lewis has decided not to progress with its plans for a new store in our city.

“The council fully supported the proposals for a new store which would have been a fantastic addition to our city centre and our work with John Lewis on the initial scheme has been recognised by the company as positive.

“Millions of visitors come to our city every year, all year long, and will continue to come because of the unique and niche shops in the Lane and in the North Laines and the larger chain outlets in Churchill Square.

“We’re confident that John Lewis would have succeeded in the city, but we’re aware too that consumer behaviour is changing. John Lewis - like other retailers – may well be feeling the impact of what they themselves have called a ‘volatile market and profound structural changes” across the industry.

“We will continue to take forward our regeneration programme for the city centre which will build on current investment and support from the retail industry and which proposes the expansion of Churchill Square as part of the Waterfront redevelopment.

“With the new Ikea coming soon in the city region and work happening now on the new Hanningtons Lane; returning the area to its former glory and opening up a new Lane which will add to our unique retail offer to visitors and residents alike, Brighton & Hove is very much open for business; and to shoppers.”
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