Reaction as Newbridge Co-op supermarket set to close

Last week, it was confirmed that the Co-operative supermarket in Newbridge, Gwent would be closing permanently.

The store, situated on the High Street, is set to close for the final time on Saturday, October 30.

It is unclear how many jobs will be impacted by this closure, as staff as discussions are said to be ongoing in regards to staff potentially transferring to other co-op stores nearby.

Within the local area, there is one Co-op two miles away in Oakdale, and another in Machen, some five miles away.

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Following news that the store would be closing, leading political figures have given their thoughts, with the MP for the area describing the store as “the heart of the community”.

Chris Evans, MP for Islwyn, revealed his concerns regarding the closure, and confirmed that he would be calling on Co-op bosses to reconsider.

Meanwhile, Rhianon Passmore MS has also written to the supermarket chain.

After receiving a letter in response confirming the closure, Ms Passmore has said that she is currently working with local stakeholders, “in the hope of bringing a new business to this site”.

It is not currently known who owns the site where the Co-op currently occupies.

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Statement from Co-op in full

In a statement, a co-op spokesman said: “The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum and while this often involves opening new stores, we also regularly review our existing sites and have to take difficult decisions.

“The decision to close any store is never taken lightly and, only after careful consideration will our Newbridge store close on 30 October.

“Our priority is to fully support colleagues, who have been informed, and help find alternative positions nearby for those wishing to continue to work with Co-op.

“We would like to thank the community for its support of this store over the years.”

Local reaction

Chris Evans, MP for Islwyn described the store as “a focal point that’s in the heart of the community.”

Continuing, he said: “Over the past day I have heard from staff and local residents who have expressed serious concerns about the impact on the area, concerns which I very much share.

 “This will be a devastating blow to the local community who now will not have easy access to groceries. Those who are reliant on public transport will now have to pay to access their groceries as there are no other supermarkets within walking distance of Newbridge. For those on low incomes this will have a huge impact.

 “I am extremely disappointed at how late in this process I have been informed of the decision. I would have welcomed consultation much earlier in this process. As a company who claims to value social responsibility, I have written to the co-ops CEO Steve Murrells to request a meeting to discuss the impact on the local community.”

Meanwhile, Rhianon Passmore MS said: “I know the closure of this popular shop at the heart of the community will be a big loss to Newbridge. I will continue to work with local Councillors, the community and stakeholders, in the hope of bringing a new business to this site.”