A TOWN centre councillor has called for an update on the former Filco supermarket site on Thompson Street, in Barry.

Castleland Vale and Barry Town Council representative, Cllr Millie Collins has asked for information as the site has been vacant for four months since the store closed just before Christmas.

The closure led to worries over pre-ordered Christmas presents that had been delivered to the shop.

The supermarket, opened in 2015, was the anchor tenant for a new shopping strip as part of a development including a Pizza Hut delivery shop, the Original Factory Store and 48 houses and flats from Newydd Housing Association.

Plaid Cymru councillor Collins said: “Nobody likes to see empty shops in the middle of the town centre.

“This housing development at the former Barry Magistrates Court was part of a mixed development with a number of shops as part of the regeneration of the area, but I worry not enough is happening to make this a success.

“Filco’s decision to close down in December was very disappointing, especially as it always seemed to be busy when I was shopping there.

“The question is how Filco will be successfully replaced.”

She added: “Who has the responsibility for filling this large retail space in the centre of town? When is it likely to have new tenants? How does this form into a wider strategy for Barry town centre?

“Plaid Cymru wants to see all of the shops in Holton Road and Thompson Street in use, but this won’t come about unless the Council takes positive action, working with traders and others to make the area more attractive for traders and shoppers.”

Newydd Housing Association housing director, Jason Wroe said: “The commercial properties situated on Thompson Street are leased to an agent, who is responsible for sub-leasing the properties, as well as for finding the appropriate commercial tenants to take on the premises.

“We cannot comment further on individual statuses of units or their lease status.

“The residential properties situated on Thompson Street however, are allocated through our partnership with the Vale of Glamorgan Council and their Homes4U initiative.”