SKIPTON'S high street department store House of Fraser (Rackhams) is earmarked for closure, it has been announced today.

The closures affecting 31 of the company's 59 stores are part of a proposed Company Voluntary Arrangement, which will require approval from creditors who will make their decision on June 22.

Staff have already been informed about the impact of jobs by the plans which are part of a rescue plan for the embattled store chain.

Frank Slevin, chairman of House of Fraser, said: "The retail industry is undergoing fundamental change and House of Fraser urgently needs to adapt to this fast-changing landscape in order to give it a future and allow it to thrive.

"Our legacy store estate has created an unsustainable cost base, which without restructuring, presents an existential threat to the business.

"So whilst closing stores is a very difficult decision, especially given the length of relationship House of Fraser has with all its locations, there should be no doubt that it is absolutely necessary if we are to continue to trade and be competitive."

Up to 6,000 jobs are under threat.

If the CVA is approved by landlords, it will affect up to 2,000 House of Fraser staff and a further 4,000 across brands and concessions.

Alex Williamson, chief executive of House of Fraser, said: "Today's announcement is one of the most important in this company's 169-year history.

"We, as a management team, have a responsibility to take necessary steps to ensure House of Fraser's survival, which is why we are making these proposals.

"We are fully committed to supporting those personally affected by the proposals."

House of Fraser said it has already informed staff set to be impacted by the plans, and was committed to "working with all those affected openly and with sensitivity over the months ahead".

As well as the store closures, House of Fraser's restructuring deal will also see the rents slashed for a further 10 stores that will remain open.

Landlords, who must vote through the plan, have already expressed serious concerns about the proposals and met on Tuesday to discuss how to respond to House of Fraser.

At least 75 per cent of creditor approval is needed, with the vote set to take place on June 22.

Property agency JLL has teamed up with lawyers at Begbies Traynor to unite both institutional and individual landlords, and advise on a course of action on House of Fraser's plans.

House of Fraser stressed that the group will continue to trade "as normal" online and through stores ahead of the CVA vote and throughout the proposal.

It is understood shops earmarked for closure would remain open until early 2019.