People have issued a renewed appeal for the empty shell of a supermarket to be filled.

The site of Morrisons in High Street, Crawley, was once full of stock and shoppers browsing its many aisles.

But in 2019, just five years after it opened, the supermarket giant announced that the store would close for good that November.

Mark Andrew, who lives in Crawley, started the discussion on Facebook.

He said: “What is happening with this building? It’s been empty for years and no one seems interested. It must be costing leaving it empty.”

Morrisons had signed a 25-year lease for the site in January 2014, with an option to break from that lease in 2029 or 2034.

A spokesman for the chain confirmed it is still paying rent for the empty store.

Property agents Colliers is listing the “modern purpose-built store” of more than 88,000 square feet for sublease.

In a listing for the unit, Colliers describes it as: “suitable for retail and leisure uses, subject to planning and landlord’s consent”.

Dozens of people chimed in with their hopes for the empty space.

Morgan Lloyd suggested Costco or Home Bargains.

Kat Grove added: “I would also be happy with Zara, Bershka, River Island, Stradivarius, H&M or Ikea.”

David Major said: “Such a waste, it was purposely built to be a supermarket, but like you say nobody is interested.

“It would suit being a Tesco Metro store but that is highly unlikely.”

Others agreed with the retail idea, but from a slightly different perspective.

Tiago Oliviera said: “It could be a local market with local producers.”

Similarly, Robin Bawn suggested an indoor market.  He said: “It could be open all year. That way the cost would be split between many market stalls. With proper parking and more trade to boost our economy.”

Some suggested it could be turned into homes, and Sarah Box said: “A play park would be could for teenagers to keep them occupied and off the streets.”

Despite rumours Waitrose was interested in the site, a spokesman for the supermarket told The Argus: “Whilst we are looking to invest in new Waitrose shops, we are not looking at this site.”