Morrisons in Tunbridge Wells is set to close.

The supermarket chain said it has looked for ways to secure the long term viability of the Vale Road store, which currently employs 140 staff.

But bosses say they have been unable to find a way to turn the branch around and are proposing its closure.

A Morrisons spokesman said: "We have begun consulting with store colleagues and unions to reduce the risk of redundancies and re-deploy as many as possible around other parts of our business.

"If the proposal goes ahead we are confident that other retailers would be interested in the site and that it can be leased quickly."

The spokesman said the consultation period could take up to 45 days.

No proposed closure date has been given.

Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark said the news is disappointing. He added: "This isvery concerning to all the people that work there. In the event the store does close, I have been reassured by Morrisons they will help redeploy as many members of staff as possible.

"It is important that the store does not go back to being boarded up and derelict again so I am encouraged that Morrisons say that they are confident that, if they do make a final decision to close, they will be able to lease the site quickly to other retailers.”

Are you currently employed at Morrisons in Vale Road? Please get in touch by calling 01622 695666 or e-mailing messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk