As we have heard, the Focus DIY stores in Wantage and DIdcot are closing down and have been in sales mode for the last few weeks. The photo above was taken on the 4 January 2008 and shows the steel frame of the Wantage store being erected - so it has only been with us for three years. What next for this outlet? I dont know, but it strikes me that this could be a good location for a new cinema now that we have lost the previous one in Newbury Street. Any other suggestions?
Of course, in Grove we have the wonderful Smiths DIY that really does try and sell amost everything.I understand that the present owners are moving on and they are only at the store for a few more days before new owners take over. They have really built up the business and made it one of the focal points of the village. So, good luck to them and very best wishes for the future.
I definately think we need to do something with the Focus site just to give us a chance to try and catch up with what Didcot & Abingdon are doing. Possibly a cinema/bowling complex... that would certainly bring money into our little town & give the young people something to do. The nearest bowling place is Thatcham or Swindon... but to have the two combined would be a goldmine. I understand that this is something that was considered when St Mary's were looking at selling their fields behind the sports centre... but never went ahead.
ReplyDeleteWhy is it that Wantage is so far behind and would rather bring in discount/charity stores or open up new clubs?
Thank you Zoe, for you kind comments about SMITHS DIY....yes we are about to retire, and have sold our wonderful shop to `Kevin and Sarah` who are young and enthusiastic, and keen to keep the shop `as is` but are also open to expanding and growing....please support them in their new venture.
ReplyDeleteTo follow on fom my previous comment.... our towns & cities are turning into a charity shop/discount haven..... how do we find out what proposals are likely to be and what would be the best way for us to voice our opinions on what can bring this wonderful little town into "THE" town to come to?
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