Plans submitted to build new Co-op store in Ackworth to replace existing store
The retailer has applied to Wakefield Council to construct a “modern, accessible and energy-efficient” food outlet next to its current store on Barnsley Road.
Plans have been put forward to build a new Co-op store in Ackworth to replace its existing premises in the village.
The retailer has applied to Wakefield Council to construct a “modern, accessible and energy-efficient” food outlet next to its current store on Barnsley Road.
The scheme includes demolishing Ackworth Garden Centre, also known as Harpins Garden, to make way for the store.
The family run business closed in January this year after 26 years when Co-op terminated its lease.
Documents submitted to the local authority said: “This application forms part of Co-op’s wider investment strategy to modernise its retail estate and improve the efficiency, sustainability and quality of its local stores.
“In Ackworth, the existing Co-op building to the north of the site is no longer capable of meeting contemporary operational or customer requirements.
“The proposals therefore seek to deliver a new, purpose-built large convenience food store, enabling continued trading during construction.
“This co-ordinated approach will secure long-term investment in the local retail centre and ensure that residents continue to benefit from a modern, accessible and energy efficient food store.”
A report said the new building would comprise a 676 sq m sales area containing an “improved layout and customer experience”, plus a 185 sq m “back of house area.”
The scheme also includes creating a new car park with electric vehicle charging points and new pedestrian access routes.
The current store would be demolished once the new premises were completed.
The existing location has been home to a local food store since 1949, when it first opened as G.T. Smith.
The report added: “Since becoming part of Co-op in 2002, it has continued to meet the everyday needs of the local community.
“The existing store was never designed as a food store, having been initially designed and operated as a bus garage.
“As such, it has always been a compromised offer.”
Local residents and councillors had been informed of the proposals at a consultation event held in May, the report said.
A petition to save the garden centre was signed by over 1,000 people earlier this year after it emerged the business was being evicted to make way for the store.
A spokesperson for Co-op Group said at the time: “Co-op has a proud history of supporting local communities, building lasting relationships and contributing positively to the communities we serve.
“As part of our future ambition for Ackworth, we are proposing a redevelopment of the current site which will include a brand-new Co-op food store.
“As a responsible landlord, we gave early notice to the tenant in June 2025, which is earlier than required within the contractual agreement, to allow the garden centre team additional time to secure alternative accommodation.”