Plans to split Carlisle’s New Look clothes store into three separate shops have been approved.

The huge unit, which is part of The Lanes Shopping Centre in Scotch Street, occupies two floors.

Agents for The Lanes Shopping Centre said the aim was to make the large unit more attractive to any businesses looking to set up in the future.

David Jackson, commercial director of The Lanes Shopping Centre, has said the move would “satisfy the current retail demand” and offered the potential for new tenants to be added in the future.

New Look has confirmed it is closing its Carlisle store at the start of November. In total 35 jobs will be lost.

It’s understood the decision may have been influenced by competition from rival businesses, as well as financial pressures.

It has been confirmed that the Workington store, on Steelmens Walk, will remain open.