Construction work is now well underway on the relocation and expansion of a Co-op store in Woodseats, with the project being developed and managed by Sheffield-based property company Ackroyd & Abbott.
The new store, which is set to open at 229 Derbyshire Lane in October, will see the closure of the existing Co-op store at 260 Derbyshire lane – although this store will remain open throughout the construction phase.
With an increase in local demand, there was a need for a larger store to ensure shoppers have access to the Co-op’s full range of fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas, hot food, food-to-go, award-winning wines and essentials.
The new contemporary store, which was approved at planning last year, will feature a customer shopping area of 250 sq m, boast wider aisles and a more accessible entranceway. It will also feature the latest in shopping technology and run on 100% renewable electricity.
Aside from the new construction jobs created, the brand-new store will see an increase in full and part-time staff, from 12 to 21, and see existing staff transferred to the new store. Off-road parking will also be increased from nine spaces to 14, helping to accommodate more visitors and stop cars blocking the road. There will also be a cycle store.
Tom Rusling, Director of Ackroyd & Abbott, the developer and manager of the project, said: “This new store helps make the Derbyshire Lane location viable for the Co-op for the long term, and most importantly, retains an important community asset, preserving and creating jobs.
“With a larger store, they will be able to offer even more fresh produce and healthy alternatives to the local community – something that is essential for a well-balanced lifestyle.
“A major focus of the new store was improved convenience. With a school and retirement home in the immediate vicinity, we understood the importance of making a wider, brighter and more welcoming shopping experience, that is user-friendly for people of all ages.”
Ackroyd & Abbott is a well-respected property development company based in Nether Edge. They have a track record of successfully delivering sensitive small and medium sized residential, industrial and commercial developments across Yorkshire.
Their other schemes in the area include a forthcoming Co-op store on Langsett Road South in Oughtibridge, the One Stop and White Cross Vets units on Retford Road in Handsworth, and two fully refurbished industrial units on Stevenson Way in Attercliffe.
They are also delivering Ashroyd Business Park in Barnsley, which is being delivered in partnership with Sheffield City Region and Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council. The prime site off Junction 36 of the M1 features five impressive industrial and logistics units, ranging from 10,900 to 52,500 sq ft.
“We are a local, family-run company who try to work with local contractors wherever possible and help support Sheffield businesses,” continued Tom.
“We are really proud of our city and truly believe that our projects make a positive and lasting contribution to the local economy and the communities in which they are located.”