A Sudbury community leader has called for "quick action" and "transparency" to clarify the position of the town's Homebase store following news it is at risk of closure. 

On Wednesday it was revealed the DIY retailer, which lost £84.2million last year, has now been sold to retail group CDS, which owns The Range.

The rescue deal secured up to 1,600 jobs and 70 stores, but the future for 2,000 workers and 49 shops is still unclear.

Sudbury HomebaseSudbury Homebase (Image: Google maps) Adrian Stohr, Labour councillor on Sudbury Town Council and GMB Trade Union Official, is now calling for a quick resolution for those working at the Sudbury store.

He said: “What we need now is complete transparency from all those involved, whether it’s the owners, consultants, or potential buyers. And we need quick action to resolve the issue. 

“The livelihoods of many of our townsfolk appear to be hanging in the balance and that is a terrible threat to have hanging over their heads.  

“This is about working people and their families. My heart goes out to them and to all of the people who depend on them.  

“Local people have worked incredibly hard for the business. The council should do anything it can to help bring about a positive outcome," he added.

​Adrian Stohr, Labour councillor on Sudbury Town Council ​Adrian Stohr, Labour councillor on Sudbury Town Council (Image: Sudbury Town Council) This comes as signage for B&M has appeared on the former B&Q site in the town.

Of the new shop arriving in Sudbury, Mr Stohr said: “This is a really exciting development. It shows that Sudbury is a place to invest and that the smart money is coming here.  

“This will bring a ray of hope to the town and deliver some of the jobs we desperately need. 

“I hear that the Range group may be considering buying some of the Homebase sites and I hope they can see the news about B&M and that other store owners and investors have confidence in our great town.”