Di Powell, the chief executive officer of inSwindon BID, which exists to boost business in the town centre, said she was "deeply saddened" at the news that Morrisons in Regent Circus is under consideration for potential closure.

"The regeneration of this area has given Swindon vibrancy and a focal point as a shopping and leisure destination for the town," she said.

“We’ve been encouraged by the recent vacancy rates where Swindon continues to buck the trend by coming in at 8.5 per cent, under the national UK average of 10.3 per cent.

"This shows that there is still investment being placed in the town, and we will do all we can to continue to raise the profile and perception of Swindon town centre to help with future potential investment.

“We’d like to remind people that although the retail landscape continues to change, our high street and local shops still need their support to thrive and attract further investment.”