The Body Shop closure 'very sad news' for Ipswich centre

The Body Shop, located in Tavern Street, is set to close its doors for the final time within the next four weeks.

It is one of 75 locations in the UK announced to close in the latest wave of axed stores. 

The beauty chain hired administrators on February 13.

The Body Shop is the latest big-name chain to leave Ipswich's high street, following Wilko and Joules at the end of last year.

Terry Baxter, chair of Ipswich Central, said: "The Body Shop has been present in the centre of Ipswich for a long time, so confirmation that the Ipswich store will shut as part of this national programme of closures is very sad news for those who love the company’s ethical values and natural products.

"This loss does allow other cosmetic retailers in the town centre - Superdrug, Boots, Lush and other independent shops selling beauty products - an opportunity to attract new shoppers.

Terry Baxter, Ipswich Central chair (Image: Ipswich Central)

"We do hope that due to its central location on the high street, the unit can be snapped up quickly by a business wishing to open in Ipswich so that it is not vacant for too long."

While the Ipswich store is facing closure, the other branch store in Suffolk, Bury St Edmunds, will remain open.

It is the second big blow for the town centre this week after news emerged that the Omniplex cinema in Buttermarket shopping centre is at risk of closing. 

Staff received an "at risk of redundancy" letter which says the business will close on or before March 24. 

The cinema is home to Ipswich's biggest screen, and currently employs around 30 employees, all of whom are at risk of losing their jobs.

The chain came forward in December last year to take over the former Empire Cinemas.

The letter sent to employees highlights the "difficult decision" being made to close the branch.

It lists the reason for potential closure as the cinema chain and Buttermarket have not been able to agree the assignment of the leasehold with the landlord.