Our local Co-op in the heart of the community is more than just a store—it's a lifeline for so many of us. As neighbours, we are deeply distressed by hearing from staff of it’s likely closure. For many people, myself included, this Co-op is the only shop within walking distance. Its closure would leave us with no local alternative to buy groceries and essentials, impacting our daily lives tremendously.

Additionally, this closure will result in the loss of jobs for the dedicated shop workers who have been part of our community for years. These are individuals who bring warmth and personal service that cannot be replaced.

We understand that businesses need to be profitable to survive, but there is a solution that can be found without taking away this valuable resource from our neighbourhood. We propose open dialogue between Co-op management and the local community to explore other options than closure. Perhaps initiatives can be considered to boost sales, like community business partnerships or expanding product range to attract more customers.

Importantly, we urge the Co-op to conduct a comprehensive study that includes understanding the actual footfall and sales data, evaluating the economic impact of closure on workers and the community, and reconsidering the decision to close based on these findings.

We urge Co-op executives to hear our voices and work with us on finding practical ways to keep this crucial asset operating.

Please sign this petition to stop the closure of our cherished community store and save the jobs of our local workers. Your support is vital to show how much our Co-op means to us and the deep impact its loss would have. Together, we can make a difference.