Sadness as Tesco superstore in Wiltshire closes permanently

The Tesco supermarket in Emery Gate Shopping Centre, Chippenham, closed its doors for the final time on Thursday, August 15.

On Friday, August 16, the Tesco sign had been removed from the entrance and the unit was in the process of being stripped, as the retailer departed the shopping centre.

There was, however, excitement on the High Street that morning following the official opening of Tesco’s new High Street Express store in the former Wilko building.

READ MORE: Tesco superstore in Wiltshire town to close this week

The closed Tesco store (Image: Newsquest)

Despite the relocation to a smaller base, Tesco says no employees lost their jobs in the move and the team remains “excited” to offer customers a wide range of products.

Residents took to Facebook this week to share their sadness at the closure of one of the town centre’s largest retail units.

Among these was Sally Shearman, who said: “Such a super shop, it’s not going to be the same, it’s going to be quiet once it’s closed.”

Daz Barber added: “Great little store with friendly checkout staff that we used often when in Chippenham.”

Since January, many have been raising fears about how the closure of Emery Gate’s biggest store will impact the town centre.

The closed Tesco store (Image: Newsquest)

Speaking the day before the supermarket shut, Andrew Dunham said: “Disgusting, no proper supermarket in the centre of town therefore (the) town (is) ruined.

“Other businesses will suffer due to this.”

Those walking past the old store were disappointed to see it closed.

One shopper said: “It’s such a shame, it’s unbelievable really.”

Another visitor to the town centre added: “I know they’re opening the Express store but that means there will be less choice, and everything will be dearer.”

Others have been more positive, with many excited to visit the new Tesco Express on the High Street.

When Tesco announced the move in January, it told customers the decision to close the Emery Gate shop, which opened in 2008, had been difficult.

A spokesperson added: “We have taken the difficult decision to close our Chippenham Superstore.

“We have however secured a new smaller premises in Chippenham town centre which we will open as Tesco Chippenham High Street Express, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers at our local stores.”