A statement from the Mayor of Woodbridge, Councillor Nigel Phipps

I am deeply saddened to hear this news. Barretts of Woodbridge has long been a cornerstone of our High Street—a friendly, family-run department store known for its high-quality home furnishings. Its presence will be sorely missed, and this serves as a stark reminder of the importance of supporting our independent businesses.

My thoughts are especially with their core team of loyal staff, for whom this news must be truly devastating. Their dedication over the years has been at the heart of what made Barretts such a valued and trusted local business.

Having moved to Woodbridge from London some 35 years ago, Barretts has played a significant role in furnishing our home and, I know, the homes of many others in our community. While internet and out-of-town shopping is very popular, the closure of Barretts is a reminder that the consequences of these forms of shopping are far reaching.

And there are wider pressures facing our town with the huge energy infrastructure projects, including Sizewell C, being built in East Suffolk. The lack of capacity on the A12 and the never-ending roadworks, is damaging. And the limited frequency on the East Suffolk Railway line does little to help. There have rightly been improvements to the A12 for construction traffic and upgrades to rail lines to accommodate heavier and more frequent freight services. But there has been far less investment directed at helping our communities manage the day-to-day impacts of these projects. If we are to sustain vibrant High Streets like ours, it is essential that equal attention is given to supporting the towns and residents with road and rail improvements that allow us to continue living alongside these changes.

Photograph by Mike Whitby