The dramatic collapse of Wilko has sparked calls for the Government’s upcoming budget to back struggling high streets.

Bradford's store will close during the third wave of Wilko’s wind down operation on September 17.

The closure of the firm’s remaining 400 stores and the loss of 9,100 staff was confirmed by administrators PwC following attempts to save the company came to an end.

It comes as Poundland is set to purchase up to 71 of the retailer’s stores after a last-minute deal between owner Pepco Group and administrators.

Poundland aims to recruit existing Wilko staff, a spokesperson confirmed. 

Mike Cartwright​, policy and representation executive at The West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said Wilko is “just the latest of household names that seem set to disappear”.

Mr Cartwright said: “Trading conditions continue to be very difficult in some sectors, as this sad news demonstrates.  

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: “Prevailing winds persist in testing the will of business leaders and so, with a government Budget now not too far away, we’ll be asking the Treasury to introduce more measures that can assist.

“Sectors like retail and hospitality have had a difficult time for a few years now, with online shopping, the pandemic and more home entertaining rather than trips to the pub.

“The loss of Wilko from the high street is sad, but just the latest of household names that seems set to disappear.  You have to feel for the workers and their families.”

Keith Wildman, owner of The Record Cafe on North Parade, fears losing Wilkos along with Oastler Market could lead to less footfall at the top of town during daytime.

The business owner said: “It’s sad because personally it’s a shop I use on a daily basis for things I need to buy for work, just general day to day things you need from sellotape and glue and proper stationary, your little odds and ends.

“It does seem a bit surprising that a shop that sells the basics is closing but there must be a bigger issue.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: “We’ve only really got Boyes and Wilkos then after that it’s a bit of a struggle to get the basics, unless you have to go online.

“It’s just a shame because it has everything you need just for your day to day necessities.

“Boyes is the alternative. They’ll pick up some trade.

“It’s strange there’s so few places to go to buy the basics.”

In the latest development, Poundland’s managing director Barry Williams said the brand will work quickly with landlords to reopen some stores as Poundlands.

He said: “We know how valued Wilko colleagues have been in scores of communities across the UK.

“We recognise the last few weeks have been difficult for them.

“The Wilko stores will accelerate our existing transformation programme, offering amazing value for consumers, providing growth opportunities for suppliers and supporting employment in the high streets, shopping centres and retail parks customers love.”