Shoppers in Darlington told The Northern Echo today that they were delighted by the news that Binns had been reprieved.

Andrew Liddle, 37, of Darlington said: “I think it’s a good thing. I was disappointed that it was going to close, it’s nice that it’s there. Personally I do a lot of online shopping myself so I can see why the brand started to see some trouble staying open, but I was really hoping it wouldn’t close when I heard the news. I’m pleased that it’s staying.”

Jacqui Newton, 53, of Darlington said: “It’s about time people supported the town. I’ve only been back in Darlington for a year after being away and I’m quite appalled. I think the town looks better that it used to, I was amazed and proud, but I’m not proud of the number of shops that have shut. Everybody was upset about House of Fraser, it’s a big part of their lives, so it’s good that it’s staying.”

Judith Aird, 59, of Darlington said: “I’m really delighted. We have just lost Marks and Spencer but the thought of losing two key shops in such a short amount of time at other ends of the high street is a big blow to the town. I just hope it keeps the brands that House of Fraser is known for. Not only that, if it stays open then that means many people will have retained their jobs. It’s a good thing for the town.”

Nigel Hall, 72, of Darlington said: “It’s a good thing because the building will be too big for anything other than shops. I couldn’t think of what else they would do with it. If they made it into separate little shops of different designers, that might work. I don’t shop in House of Fraser myself but I used to shop in Marks and Spencer and I think it’s a big shame that that’s closed. I used to go in and get all my things from there.”

Pat Pettler, 68, of School Aycliffe said: “I think it’s the only real department store in Darlington. I think it would take the heart out of the town if it was to close. But I think also think House of Fraser needs to rethink what they are doing with the inside of the store. They have lost a lot of the clothes shop areas. The council also need to look at their parking in and around the town, that might have an impact and draw people in.”

Paulina Paplinska, 25, of Darlington said: “It’s a good thing that it’s going to stay open. It’s not a shop for every day products because it’s quite expensive, but it’s great for a lot of things. I really like the Mac and Estee Lauder they sell there. It’s a good shop and it’s really important for the town that it stays open. A lot of people would like this store to stay open and I personally would.”