READERS have offered suggestions as to what new shops could open on Barrow's high street. 

This was in response to the news that fashion accessory shop Expressions will open a boutique next door to its current premises on Dalton Road. 

The original shop first opened its doors in early 2019. Dalton Road and Portland Walk have struggled to get new businesses to move into the vacant units, especially during and after the pandemic.

Kim Sargent said: "Anything better than boarded up or smashed windows Primark wouldn't entertain this town it needs to get back to how it was a shopping town x get out and ask people the very few that go into town."

Barrovians have long debated if a Primark could move into the town, perhaps to fill the empty Debenhams unit on Portland Walk. Some readers advocated Primark moving into the centre. 

Nicola High had another idea for the huge Debenhams unit: "Open debs with a few different shops shoes, clothes, cafes, perfumes but different shops all under one roof mini shopping centre."

Emma Driver said: "After walking through Portland walk on Saturday I think any shop would be an improvement. It’s an absolute embarrassment at the moment."

Tony Feeney said: "Any shop will do as long as it sells mens clothes as there is nothing here."

Carol Wilson Thomson said: "Co-op or Marks and Spencer food hall."

Christine North asked: "Do we actually have a high street anymore?"

Dave Bridges, in a sarcastic comment, said: "How about a barbers, charity shops, or more cafes, oh sorry we have them now." 

Joanne Eva replied to Dave's comment: "Don't forget betting shops," in reference to the controversial planning application to put a new Boyle Sports to replace the vacant BrightHouse unit next to McDonald's on Dalton Road. 

Ciara Rabbett said: "Think barrow will be grateful for any shops on the high street with the state of it now there's nothing left for them its shocking n looks rotten!"

Vikki Elizabeth Currie was critical of plans to open a travel agent's: "Hayes travel on portland walk like we can afford to go on holiday."