Waterstones shuts Milton Keynes centre branch

Waterstones has announced the permanent closure of its bookshop in the Centre MK Shopping Centre, Milton Keynes, over “excessive” rent demanded from its landlord.

The two-storey shop is located in the Silbury Arcade of the Grade II-listed building, which describes itself as one of the top 10 shopping destinations in the UK.

A spokesperson said: “Our bookselling team has long delighted in serving the readers of Milton Keynes and we have been proud to share our love for a good book with the local community.

“We would have preferred to reach a sensible agreement and remain but unfortunately the excessive terms demanded by the landlord, Hermes, forced us to leave. We very much hope that another quality retailer can afford the rent, rather than this resulting in yet another shop becoming vacant.

“We are very grateful for the loyal support of our customers over the years and look forward to welcoming readers to our companion branch at 72 Midsummer Place, Milton Keynes.”

The news comes after Waterstones announced it would not be reopening its university branches in Hull and Essex.

The Bookseller has approached Centre MK for a comment.