Central Co-op opens larger store in Shelton Lock to serve growing community needs

Posted by lauryn mellor | Published: 13/01/2025

The doors of Central Co-op’s brand-new store and Insomnia café in Shelton Lock are officially open, marking an exciting milestone for the local community. Baggy Shanker, MP for Derby South, attended the store opening on Friday the 10th of January to cut the ribbon and declare the new shop open, alongside Central Co-op President and Derby local, Elaine Dean and Store Manager, Alice Mead. The new facility has already been warmly welcomed by local Members and customers, providing a modern and convenient shopping experience.

The new, larger Shelton Lock store has the capacity to serve Members and customers from the two previous Central Co-op shops nearby and features a variety of modern and improved amenities. Offering the premium COOK frozen range, an in-store bakery and hot food section, chilled beer and wine selection, Tango Ice Blast machine and free water refill station. Customers will also soon benefit from InPost lockers and EV charging points, further enhancing convenience. Additional services available at the store include Yodel parcel collection and drop-off, PayPoint facilities and customer Wi-Fi.

Occupying a site with a rich history, the new store was previously the House of Darwin pub, and before that, the renowned Golden Pheasant restaurant. During the renovation process, the Central Co-op team uncovered pheasant-themed wallpaper, which has been cleverly incorporated into the store's interior design.

Renovations included internal insulation, re-roofing and new boundary treatments, including the construction of a front wall. The car park has been remodelled and resurfaced to provide 36 parking spaces, with new external lighting installed to improve safety and accessibility. As part of Central Co-op's commitment to sustainability, roof-mounted solar panels have been installed and a ground-mounted solar farm has been created on land where unused outbuildings had stud previously. This is the Society's first mini solar farm and demonstrates its dedication to environmental responsibility.

Inside the café, original timber frames and a chimney from the former pub have been retained as key design features, adding character to the space. An external café seating area has also been created to provide a welcoming environment for customers to relax and enjoy their visit.

The new Shelton Lock store is designed to be more than just a place to shop – it is a community hub where Members and the community can gather, enjoy quality food and drinks, and access essential services. With its modern design and community-focused features, the store is set to become a beloved local destination.

For more information on Central Co-op initiatives, visit centralcoop.co.uk/. To find your nearest Central Co-op shop, search at stores.centralengland.coop/search and to become a Member, visit Members.coop.

ENDS

For press information
Press Office
pressoffice@centralcoop.co.uk

Lauryn Mellor, PR and Media Specialist at Central Co-op
lauryn.mellor@centralcoop.co.uk
07385 048004