A NEWPORT city centre music store that was saved from closure will shut down in the New Year.

HMV’s store in Commercial Street had been earmarked to close when the chain was in administration, but was given a reprieve last spring.

But the firm, which is now owned by retail re-structuring firm Hilco UK and also operates a store in Cwmbran, is now due to close the store on January 11.

No reason has been given and it is not known what will happen to the store’s staff.

Hilco UK yesterday declined to comment.

A picture of the store posted to Twitter by Newport councillor for Rogerstone Chris Evans showed that the store has put up signs saying all stock was reduced and that it was closing down.

Cllr Evans said: “I visit the store almost every day. A lot of people only go into town because of it. It’s a great loss for the city centre.

“Hopefully staff will be able to find other jobs soon.

“It underlines how important the redevelopment is. Hopefully in the future the store will consider relocating to Friars Walk.”

Reports have suggested that the firm is also closing stores in Islington and Kettering next month.

The company had gone into administration almost a year ago but was bought out by Hilco in April.