Fears for hundreds of jobs as future of John Lewis in Peterborough remains unclear

Fresh fears for hundreds of jobs are being raised this morning after speculation over the future of the John Lewis store in Peterborough.

The city's MP, Paul Bristow, has written to the chairman of the company asking for clarity and raising concerns over the future of 390 people employed by the store.

Mr Bristow said: "I have been disturbed to read reports that you might not reopen your flagship Peterborough store. Your local customers are ready to provide the revenue you need to retain your 390 partners and staff. Given the uncertainty the media reports have created, I hope you will publicly put your confidence in Peterborough."

The store in the Queensgate centre has remained closed since lockdown restrictions were eased, causing concern on social media for the future of the site.

A spokesperson for John Lewis said: "The reality is we have too much store space for the way people want to shop and we have shared this with Partners. As difficult as it is, it’s highly unlikely we’ll reopen all John Lewis stores.

"However, no decision has been made and any details would be shared with Partners first by the middle of July."