THE Co-operative Food in Bromsgrove will “reluctantly” close its doors in mid-May as part of a nationwide shake-up of its stores.

Bosses say the “difficult” decision to close the site was made amid plans to open new stores elsewhere.

A spokesman said: “I can confirm that our store in Birmingham Road, Bromsgrove, will close.

“The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum, and while this often involves opening new stores, we sometimes have to take difficult decisions.

“The decision to close this store has been taken with reluctance, and does not reflect on the commitment and hard work of colleagues, who have been informed.

“Every effort is being made to support colleagues and help them to find alternative positions in the area.”

One resident bemoaning the loss of the store said its departure will leave a hole in an increasingly “rundown vacant lot”.

Phil Foster, of Upland Grove, who shopped at the store, said: “This was a busy and popular retail site which is quickly becoming a rundown vacant lot.

“Why is yet another major retailer moving out of North Bromsgrove and leaving such a gap in local community for essential food services?

"Staff are naturally devastated and feel sadly let down by Co-op as are many of the customers I have spoken to."