SINCE M&S announced it was planning to close a number of high street stores many in Barrow have suspected the Dalton Road outlet was likely to be a victim of the downsizing. 

The store has had a long history in Barrow having first opened as a Penny Bazaar in April 1911. 

Following the move to a new location further down Dalton Road and a number of extensions the store is seen as a key feature of Barrow's high street. 

If M&S goes ahead with the proposed closure what will happen to the large unit?

Some have suggested Primark will snap up the premises, given the clothes retailer's previous interest in Barrow, but that was from a time when there was greater confidence in the high street. 

The one feature in Barrow's favour and hopes of attracting such a large is that Primark, unlike many other retailers, has focused on its instore sales and does not sell online. 

But even if a new tenant does move into 193 Dalton Road will it continue to draw in the varied footfall many town centres rely on the likes of M&S for?

Only time will tell. 

Do you think the closure of M&S will sound the death knell for Barrow town centre?

Barrow M&S: A history

The M&S Penny Bazaar opened in Barrow in April 1911 at 191 Dalton Road

M&S first began selling clothes and food in the late 1920s

A new M&S "Superstore" opened at 193/197 Dalton Road on 4 March 1932

The store was extended in the 1930s and a new entrance from Buccleuch Street was added on 20 May 1938.

1962 - The two central window displays were removed, making way for four sets of double doors and two single doors, creating a bright open shopping space.

1964 - Goods were displayed down the centre and around the edges of the store, so customers could walk around in an open, well- lit and well-organised space.

March 1967 - An extension was added to the front of the store.

2 June 1967 – The back of the store was extended again.  

The store was extended in 1988, doubling its size and making more space for selling foods.

July 2002 - The store was revamped as part of M&S's programme of store renewal with new signage and lighting.

January 2019 - M&S announces the Barrow store is set to close.