THE closure of Helensburgh's Waitrose supermarket has been described as "a devastating blow" to the area's economy.

Politicians and business chiefs reacted with shock after the Advertiser reported that the Cardross Road store will shut in May with the loss of 123 full-time and part-time jobs.

Waitrose's parent company, the John Lewis Partnership, said the closure was part of a "strategic review" following the publication of disappointing financial results for the year to the end of January.

Vivien Dance, chair of the Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce, who helped open the store in October 2013 after a community campaign to bring it to the town, said she was “absolutely gutted” at the news.

Mrs Dance said: “This is a devastating blow to the town, but first and foremost we are so sorry for all the staff who will lose their jobs and the impact this will have on them and their families.

READ MORE: Shock as Helensburgh's Waitrose staff are told store will close in May

“This store was a major addition to the town and after a community battle to defeat the council who recommended refusal for the store it has provided a friendly, pleasant and welcoming shop in the midst of our community and prevented many residents having to travel to Dumbarton for a modern, well equipped supermarket.

“The shop has been well supported by local residents since it opened and even attracts shoppers from outside of the town who came for the ‘Waitrose experience’.

"But recently it has been obvious that there were problems with management of the store, particularly around stock, so in some ways the closure is not a total surprise, and is obviously connected with the wider issues for the John Lewis Partnership.

“The community will also miss the £12,000 per year which comes to local voluntary groups through the green tokens as well as other input from staff members and partners.

“The Chamber will now try to open up discussions with the new retailer to discuss their plans for the store but it is fair to say that the town is reeling from this very bad news, not a very good start in commerce terms for 2020 which has already proved to be a difficult trading year.”

READ MORE: Waitrose statement confirms closure of its Helensburgh supermarket

The area’s MSP, Jackie Baillie, said: “This is deeply disappointing news for the local community in Helensburgh and will mean that local people will have fewer options for their shopping.

“I’m particularly concerned about the impact that this closure will have on the staff. It’s vitally important that the staff are supported during what will be a difficult time for them and I want reassurances from Waitrose that this will happen.”

Argyll and Bute MP Brendan O’Hara added: “I am surprised and disappointed to hear that Waitrose are leaving the town and my thoughts are with those whose jobs are under threat.

“Helensburgh is a vibrant town and I sincerely hope that another retailer will make use of the site very quickly.”

And Conservative West of Scotland MSP Maurice Corry, who lives in Helensburgh, said he was "shocked and saddened" at the news.

READ MORE: Plans for hotel next to Helensburgh's Waitrose store scrapped due to 'lack of demand'

Mr Corry said: "The store, along with the petrol station and 'click and collect' services for John Lewis have been a great addition to the town.

"I, along with many others campaigned to attract Waitrose to the town and I for one will front a campaign to save our store.

"People are attracted to Helensburgh from other areas, in large because there is a Waitrose. I would urge anyone who wants to help save this store to contact my office.

"It is vital we retain these services and ensure the hardworking and dedicated staff are protected.”

READ MORE: Catch up with all the latest Helensburgh and Lomond news headlines here