Speculation is mounting that up-market fashion chain Gap is about to announce the closure of its Ipswich town centre store.

However there may not be a void on Westgate Street for long – budget clothing chain Primark is expected to take over the neighbouring store.

Members of staff at Gap told customers at the weekend that their store is due to close at the end of the month – an official announcement is expected within the next few days.

Primark is next to Gap on the street, and there are hopes that an enlarged store could be a major attraction for the town centre.

The budget clothing retailer has recently started rolling out a new style of store in its larger locations – and town centre bosses hope that might come to Ipswich.

Ipswich Central chief executive Paul Clement said: “If the changes are confirmed my feeling is that it is a great shame that Gap should close its store.

“However if Primark expand and convert a larger store into its new retailing format that could turn into a real shot in the arm for Ipswich town centre.”

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