The Co-op along Colney road has a long history of being targeted. The location of this store and lack of visible security means that shoplifting occurs on a daily basis and that staff members are frequently having to deal with aggressive behaviour and face challenging situations.

Amongst numerous other occasions, there was an armed robbery of this store in 2018, when staff were held at gunpoint and colleagues were also attacked by robbers wielding hammers in 2019. These incidencies are incredibly traumatic. The response to this was to reduce late night opening times by an hour ( from 10pm to 9pm), increase the outdoor lighting and to employ a security guard for a limited period of time.

Although this shop does also have an alarm alert system in place, these measures simply do not go far enough. We believe that a permanent security guard is needed as a deterrent, in order to safeguard staff and that it isn't good enough just having a reactionary response to protecting employees after major incidents!

Colleagues at this store are always enthusiastic and helpful and are well respected in our community. Staff and customers alike have a right to feel safe when spending time in this shop! After all, The Coop stores are part of The Cooperative group, who are " founded on a set of values and principles describing a different, fairer and better way of doing business". We therefore ask the Co-op to start putting these words into action and stick to their ethical principles by making the safety of all in their store a priority.

Written by Newtown Green Cllr Laura Edie,

On behalf of The Newtown Neighbourhood Watch Group.