A CONTROVERSIAL new convenience store has opened in an historic former chapel in York following a £450,000 investment that has created 16 jobs.

The new Co-op store, located in the Groves Chapel, on Clarence Street, is now up and running.

Plans to convert the chapel into a small Sainsbury’s were opposed by hundreds of people who signed a petition against the scheme in 2014.

But despite objections, the project was approved and work on the Grade II-listed building began in January 2017.

However, the store has opened as a Co-op rather than a Sainsbury’s. An application for Co-op signs to be installed on the building was submitted to City of York Council in November.

The store features an in-store bakery and Costa coffee dispenser, alongside fresh food, meal ideas, wines and essentials.

Amy Mullins, Co-op store manager, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to carry out such a significant investment in York, and we are really looking forward to serving the local community. Our ambition is to ensure the store is a local hub, a real asset for the community.”

There are offers and promotions in and around the store to mark its launch. In addition, students in York holding a NUS extra card also receive a 10 per cent discount off their groceries at the Co-op to support them during their studies.

The Co-op plans to open 100 new stores UK-wide in 2018. Earlier this year it announced a £50million price investment programme to cut the cost of everyday essentials including fruit, vegetables, bread, fresh meat and ready meals, as well as household brand names.

Co-op stores bring a funding boost to local good causes through its membership scheme. Members receive a five per cent reward on the purchase of own-brand products and services, with the Co-op donating a further one per cent to local good causes.