“We’re incredibly disheartened to hear the news of the John Lewis store closure in Birmingham. 

“The onset of COVID-19 has exacerbated the ongoing difficulties faced by the retail sector and the unfortunate closures of stores up and down the country. It is sad to see that trends in the retail market have affected our region and the survival of an iconic brand like John Lewis – an important part of our city centre fabric and visitor offer.

“We are hopeful that Birmingham’s standing as the most significant retail hub outside of London positions the region strongly through this UK-wide period of uncertainty. 

“We are keen to work with John Lewis Partnership and Hammerson to ensure that all possible safeguarding measures are explored in recognition of one of our most important anchor retailers and its employment of local people”.