CROMPTON Place shopping centre has been closed due to the coronavirus crisis but some stores are still open.

Bolton Council, which owns the site, announced that the shopping centre and car park will be closed until further notice in line with government guidance.

But three shops will stay open at the town centre mall as they fall into the category of essential services and commodities.

Boots the Chemist in Mealhouse Lane will be open on Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm and on Sunday from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Poundland in Victoria Square will be open on Monday to Saturday from 9am  to 5pm and on Sunday from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Specsavers in Victoria Square will be open on Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4.00pm for emergencies only but will be closed on Sundays.

Specsavers’ staff are classed as key workers to provide urgent and essential eye care to those who need it.

This includes supporting other key workers who could not function without their help and people who would come to harm without their health expertise, especially where the usual hospital services and NHS facilities are being prioritised for the fight against COVID-19.

A spokesman said: “Specsavers in Bolton is open to provide urgent and essential care during the COVID-19 crisis.

“This means that we won’t be providing routine eye and hearing tests but will be available for people who have issues with their sight or hearing which are causing them distress.

“We are also here to support other key workers with their eye or hearing care to make sure that they can continue with their amazing support for our communities.

“All prospective customers will be triaged before entering a store to ensure that they require an urgent or essential appointment.

“Before confirming appointments, our staff will also ensure customers are not displaying any flu-like symptoms.

“To help mitigate the spread of the virus and to keep our customers and colleagues safe, our stores are strictly adhering to guidelines provided by our regulators and professional bodies, as well as the latest government health and safety advice.”

A Bolton Council spokesman said: “The health of our retailers, centre teams and visitors is paramount and we are working hard to ensure people are being supported wherever possible.”