THE owners of the Oak Mall today blamed Inverclyde Council for Marks & Spencer's bombshell decision to leave the shopping centre.

Bosses say they are 'extremely disappointed' after M&S announced yesterday they would be moving out to the new retail park in Port Glasgow.

The retail giant has had a store in Greenock for 80 years and its decision to leave is a major body blow which has triggered a strongly-worded response.

A statement issued on behalf of Oak Mall shopping centre and M&M Property Asset Management LLP said: "We understand that this move has been facilitated by Inverclyde Council’s decision to grant planning permission for the retail park at Port Glasgow.

"Our strong objections to the plans for additional retail premises in the region were ignored and we are now seeing the result of this on Greenock town centre as a whole."

The owners say that the current Marks & Spencer location is not owned by the Oak Mall, adding: "Consequently, their decision to leave had nothing to do with the level of rent charged at Oak Mall. However, due to the store’s position within the town centre and the proximity to Oak Mall, the departure will have a negative impact on both. The loss of a city institution dating from 1936 is the result of councillors ignoring planning policy and encouraging the development of retail parks rather than supporting town centres."

The Mall owners also highlighted recent investment in their centre - and say that they are poised to announce the arrival of new tenants.

The statement said: "Despite the tough economic circumstances and over-supply of shop units in the Inverclyde region, the owners of Oak Mall continue to invest in the centre.

"The mall floor has been replaced at a cost of £2m and despite the increased competition lettings have been secured with national retailers such as JD Sports and Greggs. We anticipate being in position to announce other new arrivals in the next few weeks."

The Tele has invited the council to respond to the statement from the Oak Mall owners.