Marks and Spencer at Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester has permanently closed its doors

Marks and Spencer at Piccadilly Gardens has closed its doors to the public.

The long serving store, situated beside Piccadilly Gardens and the bus station, on the corner of Parker Street and Mosley Street, has put up signs thanking customers for their support and advising them of their nearest store. The nearest M&S food hall is now in Piccadilly train station and there is a large store at the bottom of Market Street.

The news of the closure comes as the retailer announced earlier this year its plans to open 20 new shops across the UK by next April - including one in Stockport and a huge store at The Trafford Centre, in the site of the former Debenhams.

M&S said its plans have brought new store investment to £480m and will create more than 3,400 jobs. Alongside investing in its owned stores, M&S also has plans to extend its franchise deals and build on its partnerships with BP, Costa, Moto and SSP.

The closure of the store at Piccadilly Gardens is the latest in a number of high end closures in the area, including Debenham’s, Santander and the bank at 38 Mosley Street - all left empty.

Signs inform the public: “Goodbye and thank you from everyone at Manchester Piccadilly. Your nearest store is M&S Market Street.”

Marks and Spencer have been approached for comment.