ONE of South Norwood's biggest supermarkets is to close, with around 40 jobs expected to go.
The Co-op, in Station Road, is to close its doors after a troubled existence and rumours it has long been the target of robbery.
The Advertiser understands it will close in September but another supermarket chain, Aldi, confirmed it plans to open at the site in 2015.
It is understood Aldi will not offer jobs to those currently working at the Co-op.
Instead, the Co-op says it will try to offer those employees jobs at their stores elsewhere, but a spokesman admitted the closure "may result in some redundancies."
Wayne Lawlor, a Labour Co-operative councillor for South Norwood, said he was disappointed to see the store close.
He added: "It's a great shame and as a Labour Co-operative councillor I've been a great fan of the shops for years. It doesn't sound like Aldi will take on any of the current staff which is very disappointing."
Cllr Lawlor said the crime reported to have happened at the store is a result of poor management as well as policing changes.
He added: "There have been a few issues there over the years – and it was the same when it was Somerfield before – with security and stories about people stealing from the store.
"I would have liked to have seen more robust security in place at the store and I don't think the closure of South Norwood Police Station has helped."
A spokesman for Co-operative Food said the decision reflected the company's strategy nationwide.
He said: "The Co-operative Group continually reviews its retail estate, and we have made the decision to focus on smaller convenience stores and dispose of those trading outlets that do not align with our strategy.
"The consideration to sell the store is in no way a reflection on the hard work and commitment from colleagues working at the South Norwood store."
The Co-operative is set to open a new shop on the site of The Selhurst Arms pub, in Selhurst Road, later this year.
It will be Aldi's second store in the borough to add to its supermarket in Selsdon with another expected to open at the former Red Lion pub in Coulsdon.
