Optimism for Great Yarmouth town centre despite closures

That is the view of Great Yarmouth town centre manager Jonathan Newman as he stated the area is "holding its own" despite two independent retailers recently announcing their departure from the town centre.

Kerrison Toys announced it was looking into closing its store in King Street after a "tough couple of years".

The toyshop - which has been on the street since the 1980s - was put up for auction with Bernard Marcus last week with a guide price of £180,000.

However, the lot failed to sell. 

Steve Kerrison, owner of Kerrison Toys in Norwich and Great Yarmouth (Image: Newsquest) (Image: Newsquest)Stephen Kerrison, who owns the Yarmouth branch and a store in Norwich, said the town toyshop will be staying open for the time being.

"As it didn't sell, we are carrying on as we were," said Mr Kerrison.

"The shop will probably be put back up for auction, but we are weighing up our options for now. We're waiting to see what happens."

Avenue Fabrics owner Matthew Nicholls announced the shop is relocating to Ormesby in October. (Image: James Weeds)The store's planned closure comes as another town centre staple - Avenue Fabrics - announced its plans to move away from the area due to high rent increases.

Town centre manager Jonathan Newman said it will be sad to see both businesses leave the town.

Great Yarmouth town centre manager Jonathan Newman. (Image: James Weeds)"Kerrison's used to be in a high-traffic area, but changes in high street retail has clearly had a massive impact," Mr Newman said.

"And where Fabric Avenue is based is prime retail frontage. They offer a very niche product and that brings many people into the town, so it will be sad to see them move."

Avenue Fabrics is located in front of the marketplace. (Image: James Weeds)Despite the announced town centre closures, Mr Newman said there is still reason to be optimistic about the future of the town centre.

"The new marketplace is still finding its feet but new stalls have opened and people are more impressed with what they see," he said. 

"And there are still more improvements to come."

The former Palmers building - renamed The Place - is due to open as a library and education centre early next year. (Image: James Weeds)READ MORE: Great Yarmouth Wilko's longest-serving staff say goodbye

Mr Newman said he was also happy that other than last year's closure of Wilko, national retailers have remained in the area.

He added: "The town is holding its own and there are many more positives coming on the horizon.

"It just takes time."

Kerrison Toys on King Street, Great Yarmouth. (Image: James Weeds)