Save the Weston Road and Holmcroft Road Co-op stores in Stafford

156

Let’s get to 200 signatures!
Petitions with 1,000+ supporters are 5x more likely to win!

The Issue

Living in Stafford, the Weston Road and Holmcroft Road Co-op stores have always been more than just grocery shops—they are lifelines for our community. As someone who has called this town home for many years, I understand how imperative these stores are to the local fabric. They are not just convenient places to pick up milk or bread; they provide a vital service to countless residents who rely on them for everyday needs.

For many, these stores are within walking distance and represent their only viable option for groceries because they either do not drive, have mobility issues, or need to shop more frequently in smaller quantities. In a world where access to transportation is not equal for all, these Co-op stores ensure that everyone has access to food and essential goods without undue hardship.

The potential closure of these stores would particularly affect older adults, who may not be able to travel to larger, more distant supermarkets. It's not just about shopping; it's about independence and maintaining the quality of life they deserve. For those of us with children or caring responsibilities, being able to quickly pop into a local shop can make all the difference in managing our busy lives.

Furthermore, the consequences extend beyond practical inconveniences. These stores are community hubs, places where familiar faces gather and where one can experience the warmth of local interaction. In a time when social distances are widening, they provide an invaluable connection to others.

There is an assumption that there are adequate alternatives in Stafford, but that is simply not the case for many of us. The lack of a local shop would force us to travel further afield, impacting our carbon footprint and taking valuable time out of our day.

I urge the Co-op management to reconsider their decision and keep both the Weston Road and Holmcroft Road stores open. The loss of these stores would not only be a loss of a service but a loss of community spirit.

Please join me in safeguarding the vital role these stores play in our neighbourhoods. By adding your signature, you are taking a stand for maintaining access to essential goods and for the preservation of community ties that define Stafford's heart.

Sign this petition to help us save our local Co-op stores before it’s too late.

The Decision Makers

Leah Ingham
Leah Ingham
MP for Stafford

Petition Updates