A new Central Co-op store has opened and is now serving the growing community at Alconbury Weald, near Huntingdon. 

The store is located in The Glade, the first ‘local centre’ to be built as part of the 6,500-home development.  

It has created 25 jobs, including a store manager, three team leaders, two in the bakery, and 19 customer services assistants.      

Central Co-op partnered with the site’s developers Urban&Civic for the launch and an official opening event was held on Friday (July 14).

Rebecca Britton, Regional Director for Communities and Partnerships at Urban&Civic, said: “The Co-op opening marks an important milestone for the development, providing the heart of the first phase of Alconbury Weald.” 

She added the store will give residents a great choice of products and “complements” the community’s first local shop, Swynford Stores. 

As well as the usual offerings of any modern store, the Central Co-op also has InPost parcel delivery lockers and a machine for takeaway coffees and other drinks.  

Customers will be able to use a free water refill station. 

The Urban&Civic website explains the first phase of the Alconbury Weald development will see 1,719 homes built as well as a primary school, sports pitches, shops and open spaces.  

An investment of £8m has also been committed to transport improvements, it says.  

The next phase of the development is due to start soon.   

Ms Britton added: “Alongside the Co-op, we’re particularly excited about the public square and green spaces in The Glade... 

“[We] will continue to work with partners and residents to bring forward the great ideas received during the consultations around pop-up markets, community events and seasonal activities.  

“We’re also working with potential providers to start work on the future nursery as soon as possible.” 

Cambridgeshire County Council relocated its headquarters to the New Shire Hall at Alconbury Weald in 2021.