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The closure of shops in Bargoed town centre has been described as “devastating” by a councillor representing the area.

Gus Jones Jewellers will close in March after 120 years in the town, while fish shop-turned cafe, Belinda’s Plaice, will also close its doors. 

While the gift shop, Just Because, is also closing, Caerphilly Observer understands the premises will still be used by the owner who will extend his other businesses – MM Training Academy and Modern Man – and bring them under one roof. 

Cllr Dawn Ingram-Jones, who represents Aberbargoed and Bargoed on Caerphilly County Borough Council, told Caerphilly Observer that the news marked a sad start to the new year. 

She said: “It’s devastating that two businesses in Bargoed are closing their doors for good due to rising costs and falling footfall in the town. 

“Gus Jones Jewellers opened their very first shop in Bargoed 120 years ago and have been part of the fixtures and fittings for all our lives.”

Cllr Ingram-Jones also said that Belinda’s Plaice, which “transformed into a cafe in the hope of encouraging more customers through the door” will be “missed by many”. 

Cllr Ingram Jones continued: “Although Just Because is closing, the owner has decided to extend his business to bring Modern Man and MM Training Academy all under one roof. I congratulate him on his forward-thinking and enterprising spirit.”

Cllr Ingram-Jones praised the other “ambitious” entrepreneurs growing their businesses in Bargoed. 

Murray’s Bar and Restaurant, for example, has put in for planning permission to turn part of the premises into a B&B.

But Cllr Ingram-Jones thinks more needs to be done to save the High Street.  

She said: “Supporting local businesses is very important to me and I consistently show this in whatever way I can, including regular promotion on social media; local events encouraging more visitors; backing grant applications from Bargoed and Aberbargoed; and, most importantly, spending my money locally. 

“I urge people to support the high street to ensure they survive and encourage new business in the town. As they say, ‘Use it or lose it.’”