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Chichester voices must be heard on impact of Co-op sales on local services
Yesterday I wrote to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to express my deep concerns about the proposed sales of two local Co-ops in our community.
The Parade, East Wittering and The Square, Westbourne have both been earmarked for sale as part of a package of closures offered to by the Co-op Group, to address the CMA's competition concerns, following its acquisition of Southern Co-op earlier this year.
But while the CMA has proposed to accept the sales, local voices and the impact on our rural communities, that will be felt by the loss of these crucial amenities, is missing from this conversation.
I spoke with them yesterday to convey the strength of feeling within East Wittering and Westbourne, and amplify the concerns felt by the many people that took the time to write to me.
While both stores will reportedly stay as grocery shops, one of the major concerns for both villages is that in such a gruelling economic climate, will they be easily sold?
In my letter (please see below), I asked for reassurance that the Co-op will continue to operate, should no alternative operator come forward.
Moreover, will the new local shops continue to fulfil vital community roles? I point out that the Co-ops in Westbourne and East Wittering are not just a local shop, they serve the community as:
A Post Office for all residents.
A Face-to- Face banking option for those who are vulnerable (or just prefer it!).
A locally-focussed store that champions local produce and is a crucial part of the high street, supporting other independent village stores.
The CMA told me yesterday that the package has not yet been agreed, so there is still time for objections to be heard and considered.
I will continue to fight for the reassurances outlined in my letter, ensure that our rural, local voices are heard, and make it clear that we want our Co-ops in Westbourne and East Wittering to stay — Right by you.
