THREE menswear shops have shut their doors in a matter of weeks raising fresh concerns for St Helens town centre - but the council insists a "thriving" high street "remains a priority".

The Star reported that Greenwoods on Bridge Street has closed its doors - just months after the store had been saved.

And further blows to the town centre have been struck with DaVinci Menswear and Scotts - both part of the Church Street Square Shopping Centre complex - announcing closures.

St Helens Council leader Barrie Grunewald said: “It’s obviously very disappointing to see any retail trader shut up shop at a time when we as a council are looking to invest in the regeneration of St Helens town, but unfortunately, changing shopping habits have created a whole new set of challenges for every town centre.

“Despite the financial challenges faced by both public and private sector organisations, I would like to reassure the people of the borough that a thriving town centre is an absolute priority, and work is already ongoing behind the scenes to ensure our town grows and develops into one that can rival the best and instil pride among local people."

Cllr Grunewald added: “We can confirm that an asset management company has recently been appointed to oversee the development of Church Square Shopping Centre whose job it will be to attract a new kind of offer in line with what residents want to see in their town centre – notably retail and leisure facilities – in order to breathe new life into the town.”

The Star understands that parties have already expressed an interest in the vacant Scotts unit.

A Scotts spokesman confirmed the shop's closure but would not expand on the reasons behind it.

The Star has attempted to contact DaVinci Menswear.