A POPULAR budget store has shut up shop for the last time in Royal Wootton Bassett, leaving another unit empty in the town’s High Street.

The landlord is now looking for a new tenant to take on the lease of the shop now it has become vacant.

Estate agents Alder King, who are marketing the unit, said the shop will be available for a new business from March.

James Gregory, partner of Alder King’s Swindon office, said: “This unit is situated in the heart of the town by the war memorial and the pedestrian alley leading to Borough Fields shopping centre, so benefits from strong footfall and profile.

“Over the past 12 months, we have seen a reduction in the number of empty shop units across our high streets as consumer confidence has picked up and we expect this unit to be of interest, particularly to an independent retailer looking to tap into the popular market town.”

The news has divided opinion in the town’s business community, with some welcoming the excitement of a new outfit while others fear what it means for the future of the High Street more generally.

Hazel Newson, chairman of the Royal Wootton Bassett Business Association, said: “There is always a great deal of interest on the few occasions when a retail unit becomes vacant in Royal Wootton Bassett.

“This one is in a prime location too, right in the centre of our High Street. We are hopeful that it will attract an exciting new business to the town.’’

The Ninety Niner is the latest independent store to leave the town, just weeks after the parent company of the nearby Marsh Farm Hotel announced that they had gone into administration.

But businesses is generally booming in the town, with residents set to welcome a new tapas restaurant next month.

Casa de Pico has taken over the former Starfish Bar cafe in the High Street and is currently undergoing a major refurbishment before opening in March.

The unit in Merchants House has been occupied by The Ninety Niner for the past 15 years. More details are available from James Gregory on 01793 428106.