Major fashion retailer with 200 stores across UK announces devastating closure

Shoppers have been dealt a blow after a major high street retailer with more than 200 stores across the UK announced it would shut down a branch next month to make way for a £28million redevelopment scheme. Matalan confirmed its megastore at Station Business Park in Carlisle will close on Saturday, March 7, due to major planned works.

The fashion and homeware retailer said it was "evaluating potential relocation opportunities", but no site has been confirmed yet. The retail park where the shop is located will be transformed into a new southern entrance for Carlisle station, as part of the Carlisle Station Gateway redevelopment scheme, which aims to transform Carlisle Station to a "welcoming gateway to the city".

A public car park, coaches, and pick-up and drop-off facilities will be relocated to this side of the station, to reduce traffic at Court Square, which will be partially pedestrianised with links towards the city.

A Matalan spokesperson told News & Star: "Our Carlisle store will close in March due to the planned redevelopment of the site.

"We have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the community in Carlisle and are evaluating potential relocation opportunities. Our priority now is to support our colleagues. We are working closely with all those affected and, where possible, exploring alternative positions."

Loyal customers have been told the closest Matalan branch to Carlisle will be Dumfries and Workington.

However, Matalan is eyeing investment this year. In December, the retailer said it would refurbish 40 stores in 2026, 10 more than originally planned, after its 2025 upgrade programme increased sales.

It completed 30 planned refurbishments last year as part of a £25 million investment in its bricks-and-mortar estate, and Matalan said the refurbished sites were outperforming the wider retail network by 14% in sales.