PIONEER readers have shared their ideas for the future of the Llandudno building soon to be left vacant once the town’s Wilko store closes for good next week.

On September 5, it was confirmed that the final day of business for the shop, at Mostyn Champneys Retail Park, will be Tuesday, September 12, after Wilko fell into administration in August.

It is among 52 Wilko stores confirmed to be closing, with redundancies of 1,016 staff based at those sites.

Taking to the Pioneer's Facebook page, residents have offered their thoughts on what should take its place.

Joanna Whalley said: "Dunelm would be great," while Dyfan Roberts added: "Maybe a (Liverpool-based) Baltic Market-style food hall".

Bobby Dorias suggested HMV, saying: "The only place in Llandudno I could find selling DVDs was Asda, and that was a very minimal selection.

"There are plenty of furniture and bedding places in town already. We need more variety in Llandudno, especially things that cater to younger people, since the town is severely lacking in that area."

Following the news of the Llandudno Wilko store's closure, Robin Millar, the MP for Aberconwy, expressed his sympathies with the members of staff now facing redundancies.

He said: “Every job matters, and my immediate thoughts are with the Wilko employees during what is certain to be a distressing time.

"I have been in contact with the Llandudno store’s manager and I will do all that I can to assist Wilko's staff in finding new employment and in accessing the UK Government support to which they are entitled.

“Our local economy is buoyant and robust and, as we approach the crucial Christmas trading season, I’d like to encourage businesses with vacancies to reach out to Wilko staff who are facing redundancy.

“The retail sector is facing significant changes in consumer habits. These changes have been accelerated by the pandemic – particularly the growth in online shopping.

"However, the Wilko store is located in a prime position in Llandudno and I am optimistic that the site will be used to provide employment and training opportunities for the future.”

Likewise, Janet Finch-Saunders, the MS for Aberconwy, added: “I am very sorry that the store is closing. I hope that the staff who are being made redundant are receiving support.

“Mostyn Champneys is a leading retail park in a fantastic town, so I have every confidence that the unit will be filled again soon.”

Cllr Angie O'Grady, county councillor for the Tudno ward in which the Wilko store is situated, said: "Clearly, there are concerns for the staff; most of whom, if not all, will lose their livelihood. 

"In any climate, it is so very hard when people lose their job. However, given the cost-of-living crisis, the loss of their jobs will have a huge impact on the staff’s overall wellbeing."