Readers wonder what is in store for shop site

QT Facebook followers have had their say on the closure of the Town and Country farm supplies shop that had served the people of Ipswich for 50 years.

CLOSING: Town and Country owners (from left) Julie, Norman, David, Frances and Michael Walker. Picture: Inga Williams

QT Facebook followers have had their say on the closure of the Town and Country farm supplies shop that had served the people of Ipswich for 50 years.

The site has been purchased by the same developer that is behind the demolition of the One Mile Hotel, which is adjacent to Town and Country.

The shop will close its doors in February.

Norman and Frances Walker established the business in 1966 at the corner of Brisbane and Clay streets as Ipswich Vet and Farm Supplies.

They relocated to the current location in the 1980s, following ongoing flooding issues.

Town and Country part-owner Julie Walker said the shop employed up to 15 staff in its heyday but business had declined in recent years.

"In the last four years, the retail sector has been affected pretty badly. Most retailers we have spoken to have said how tough it has been. Most of our suppliers have said how tough it has been. We couldn't envisage retail turning around," Mrs Walker said.

Here's what QT Facebook followers had to say.

Ashley Clarke: "It is sad, but unfortunately also a sign of the times. I've shopped there for 30-odd years, and will be sad to see it go. Inevitably things change as times go by. In the half-century since the business opened, all of the surrounding farms have gone, giving way to suburbs and higher density housing. The demographic of customers has changed dramatically, as have the needs of the customers themselves. I'm sad that they are selling, but understand why. Nevertheless, I mourn the passing of another iconic Ipswich business into history."

Robin Boughen: "Another business with a difference gone from Ipswich, but understandable in their case. Wishing them all the best as their lives move on . I used to like the customer service, different product lines, smell of leather and rural products when I shopped there in times past. Hoping the developor gives us something different and not more of the same old same old - just like the Council did in missing a golden opportunity with the Bremer redevelopement.

Wayne Gaddes: "Sadly as times change so do people's buying trends and needs. As the story said, it was originally set up with farmers as customers. I'd say the big stores now attract their smaller "hobby" customers. It is sad but also a sign of the times in much the same way corner shops and small hardware stores have gone. Hope they enjoy their retirement.

Pamela Boyle: "Mystery Developer? Does that mean that something is going to be built there that will not be popular with local community or just another chain store that we dont need?"

Mandy Scott: "The sad thing is that they are putting a 7-11 in its place. Like we don't have enough of them around.