Peacocks, the fashion retailer with around 350 UK stores, has confirmed the closure of its Pontypool branch after more than 20 years. The shop will shut for good on Wednesday, August 19. The decision, attributed to lease expirations and declining high street footfall, has heightened local fears for the future of the town centre.
Closure details and impact
The nearest alternative Peacocks store will be in Cwmbran Shopping Centre, about five miles away. A spokesperson for Peacocks told the South Wales Argus: "After more than 20 years in Pontypool, the decision was not taken lightly, and we would like to thank our customers and the local community for their support over the years."
The spokesperson added that the company is consulting with colleagues and supporting them through the process. They declined to comment on future plans for the building, noting it is a matter for the landlord or new owner. While no immediate plans to return to Pontypool exist, the possibility is not ruled out if a suitable opportunity arises.
Shoppers describe town as 'dead'
Local residents and business owners have expressed concern over the closure. One shopper described the town centre as "dead." A cafe employee told Nation Cymru: "I’ve not served one customer yet today. We’ve prepared all this food but there are no customers."
Paul Evans, who runs the Man Cave & Boy Zone stall, described footfall in Pontypool as "dire" and noted that many people now shop in Cwmbran instead.
Council response
A spokeswoman from Torfaen Borough Council said store closures are commercial decisions, but the council is committed to supporting Pontypool town centre. Investment is planned for the southern entrance along Hanbury Road later this year, funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. Town centre properties have also been improved through the Welsh Government’s Transforming Town grants. The council emphasised that town centres are no longer defined solely by retail, aiming to create vibrant spaces combining culture, leisure, food, hospitality, and community activity.
