The former Crossway Garage site in Coleford, near Radstock, is set to become a new Co-op convenience store, owned and operated by longtime locals Chris and Barbara Osborne. The couple, who have run businesses in the area for over 25 years, are proud to bring a vital amenity back to their village.
Like many small towns and villages across the country, Coleford has faced numerous shop closures in recent years, leading to a decline in local amenities. The opening of the new Co-op promises to be a welcome boost to the community’s daily life.
Chris Osborne, who has lived in Coleford his entire life, took over the Crossway Garage—the site of the new store—from his parents, who ran it since the 1950s. Now, after renovating and refurbishing the space, Chris and Barbara have created a modern Co-op that stays true to the site’s local heritage.
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Choosing community over development, Chris and Barbara declined offers to sell the land for housing. Their goal was to preserve a local shop that serves as a community hub. Their son, Eugene Osborne, expressed pride in their decision: “They could have sold the site for housing, but they wanted to keep amenities alive in the village. Over the past decade, Coleford has lost many of its amenities, so it’s inspiring to see a national company like Co-op supporting a rural community. Without amenities, I feel we lose community.”
After decades of living and working in Coleford, Chris and Barbara are excited to welcome neighbors to their new shop, which officially opens at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 1. The opening marks a fresh chapter for the village and a commitment to preserving its community spirit.