The Rose in June pub which has been standing vacant was recently granted a change of usage permission by local authorities. In the wake of this its now been confirmed that the Co-op has taken on the lease. Once refurbishments have been completed a new convenience store will open its doors next year.
The 165 year old building is held in high regard by many island residents whom a large proportion of wanted to see the premises re-open as a public house. A petition was set up by Home Nursing Supplies owner Michelle Mitchell who managed to gain 400 signatures from people against the idea of the Rose in June being turned into another shop.
She said: The council has ignored our views.There will now be three convenience stores within 150 yards of each other. No one can understand it. People will stop visiting the little newsagent for their papers and bypass this area altogether.Its ridiculous. It will be in Selsmore Road which backs onto the high street. Weve already got Tesco on the island too.
The land next to the Rose in June has also had planning permission submitted for four three bedroom houses by Monterrey Properties. This will be decided under planning officers delegated powers as the size of the plot is deemed small scale.
The Co-op will open its brand new 3500sq ft shop early next year and the companies regional acquisitions manager Gareth Dexter commented: The Co-operative is proud of its record of operating at the heart of many communities.
A new store on Hayling Island will create new jobs and will complement our existing nearby outlets while providing an asset for the local community.
