We are concerned that the Sainsbury’s supermarket on Foss Bank in York is due to close in January 2025. We share the disappointment of residents over this closure.

For many residents who live close-by and those from surrounding areas, this is a vital, local shop that is valued for its convenience where there is a full range of fresh produce and groceries available on your doorstep. It is accessible for residents living close to the city centre and in the Groves neighbourhood who don’t have a means of transport or can’t travel to other supermarkets, or who are not able to order online. Car ownership amongst residents in the area is some of the lowest in York.

The Sainsbury’s on Foss Bank has many longstanding, friendly and helpful staff who know the regular customers and maintain the store’s strong links to the local community, ensuring it is a safe, welcoming place. We wouldn’t like to see the staff lose their jobs or be transferred to other stores that would be less suitable for them through changes to their shift patterns or longer commuter journey times, for example, and the negative impact this would have on them and their families.

This store is firmly established amongst residents and customers and has been at this site for 40 years. Despite Sainsbury’s and their landlord reviewing all options, the landlord has made the decision not to renew the lease and is looking to re-develop the site. This will be a huge loss of a community asset to people in the area, and the potential loss of crucial employment in a thriving business. We believe the landlord should re-consider their decision and renew the lease to Sainsbury’s in the interests of local residents and the supermarket’s staff. Please sign our petition and share it.