TRADERS have given a lukewarm reception to the news of Carpetright's arrival in Potters Bar. As reported on www.whtimes24.co.uk earlier this week, the carpet retailer is moving into Darkes Lane, replacing the fo

TRADERS have given a lukewarm reception to the news of Carpetright's arrival in Potters Bar.

As reported on www.whtimes24.co.uk earlier this week, the carpet retailer is moving into Darkes Lane, replacing the former Woolworths store.

Chris Piercey, who runs Elaines Stationers in the road, said: "I'm glad that it isn't going to be empty for much longer, but it isn't what we want really.

"In my opinion it isn't going to bring regular footfall back, which is what we need."

He added: "I was hoping that a food store of some sort was going to go in there but obviously the lack of a car park put paid to that.

"I don't think a Carpetright is going to benefit us much."

Debbie Stevens, the manager of nearby Hallmark Cards, said she was pleased the unit would no longer be vacant, but confessed she would have preferred Wilkinsons or Marks and Spencer to come to the town.

"What Potters Bar needs is different types of units selling different things," she said.

"That would be the type of store to entice customers back into Darkes Lane."

She added: "How often do people buy carpets?"

And Eddie Lui, who owns Majestic Flowers in Darkes Lane, admitted he was "a little bit disappointed" at the news.

"A retail store might be better because Carpetright may not pull in a lot of custom to Darkes Lane.