A LONG-STANDING town supermarket is set to shut as part of wider plans outlined by bosses across the area.

The East of England Co-op has revealed plans to transfer and lease three of its stores across Essex and Suffolk.

The store in Weavers Court in Halstead is one of the sites affected, however its future occupant has not yet been confirmed.

Co-op bosses confirmed last week its plans to transfer and lease its Brightlingsea and Felixstowe supermarkets to retailer Sainsbury’s.

However, they remain in conversation with a second retailer regarding the transfer and lease of its Halstead site.

The East of England Co-op will remain the owners of the property.

Doug Field OBE, chief executive at the East of England Co-op, said: “We’ve informed our colleagues and tenants at our Brightlingsea, Felixstowe and Halstead supermarkets of our plans to lease and transfer these sites as going concerns, protecting both jobs and local services.

“This is in no way a reflection on our incredible colleagues, who provide fantastic service to our members and customers.

“We’ll keep affected colleagues and our members updated as these discussions progress, however at this time we’re unable to share any further information."

Mr Field continued: “The letting of our Brightlingsea, Felixstowe and Halstead supermarkets will provide the Society with secure long-term rental income, allowing us to invest in providing our members, customers and clients with new, modern facilities.

“We’re in discussions with a potential operator for Halstead’s supermarket, however, we’re not in a position to share any more at this stage.

“We own the property and will continue to do so.

“Our plan is to lease the store to the potential operator, with colleagues to transfer under TUPE.”