A PRIMARK store in Barrow would make a big difference to the town according to the man leading its successful Business Improvement District (BID) project.

Businessman Phil Collier, who is chairing the BID’s steering group, said:”Over the past two or three years we’ve been involved with town centre businesses people have often asked ‘why can’t we get a Primark in Barrow?’

“It really would be a positive step in the right direction.”

It’s believed Primark is interested in opening a store in the town. It’s already opening new outlets in Carlisle and Lancaster and is said to be looking for a site in Barrow town centre.

Mr Collier added:” We’d certainly want in in a town centre location rather than an out of town location., that would be the most positive outcome from a BID perspective. It would attract businesses and shoppers.

“What we need in Barrow town centre is a mix of good national stores, to attract footfall, and we need to open up the empty shops for young entrepreneurs.

“We don’t want a town centre that’s all nationals and we don’t want one that’s all small businesses.We need a balance but there’s no question it would certainly be a good driver for local business.”

David Pidduck, the leader of Barrow Borough Council agrees. He said:”If they’re interested in coming here it’s a good sign.

“Companies will go where they believe they can be successful.

“I believe companies like Primark would be successful here and it would encourage other businesses to come to Barrow.

“If you look around the borough at the the major supermarkets that surround the area, I think other places would give their eye teeth to get what we’ve got here.

“There are great opportunities here in Barrow and I’ll welcome any new businesses with open arms.”

Work began in April on a 45,000 sq ft Primark store in Lancaster, which will be the nearest outlet to Barrow when it opens this autumn.

A further Primark store is due to open in Carlisle before the end of the year.