A popular discount store is set to shut next month after the site was earmarked for a development of shops and flats.
The Original Factory Shop in Deal has announced it will be closing its doors for good on September 28.
The store, which specialises in clothing, homeware and beauty products, is located on the high street.
In an announcement, bosses said: “We are sorry to let you know our store will close its doors on September 28, 2024.
“We take this opportunity to thank all of the local community and our store colleagues for their support throughout our time here in Deal.
“We’d love to see you in-store one final time to say goodbye.”
Customers have shared their sadness about the news.
“Oh no, that’s my favourite shop,” one resident wrote on Facebook.
Another said: “I love this shop. I go to Deal, from Dover, regularly, the main reason being the factory shop. Don’t think I will be shopping at Deal much after it closes.”
It comes as plans for 17 flats above the store, as well as its transformation into five separate retail units, were approved last year, despite concerns over a lack of parking spaces.
A report from planning officers said: “Provision of the development with no parking is considered acceptable for the town centre location.
“Kent County Council Highways has advised that sufficient overnight parking is available within the vicinity of the site and that they have no objection to nil parking provision.”
A total of 12 letters of objection had been submitted to the council about The Original Factory Shop application, also citing fears over the loss of a discount shop and because they feared reduced privacy and light.
Gabriella Jones said on the planning portal that the building had always been a discount or department store and added: “Deal now has hardly any chain stores and the small stores need large chains as an anchor.
“The footfall like everywhere has fallen since the pandemic but with M&S going it’s declined even more.”
The Original Factory Shop has been contacted for comment.