A POPULAR supermarket is set to close, leaving residents concerned about the loss of a vital amenity.

The Star Co-operative, in Meppel Avenue, Canvey, will close its doors for the final time on Tuesday, February 27.

The announcement came as a shock to many residents, with one nearby homeowner stating she “relied heavily” on the shop.

The proposed closure comes ahead of a new Co-op opening on the site of the former King Canute pub, on Canvey Way.

The new Co-op will be an East of England Co-op and is set to open in at least five months.

Star Co-operative confirmed the closure has nothing to do with plans for a new store on the island.

Doreen Randall, 73, of Meppel Avenue, said she and neighbours will struggle to get to the new Co- op on Canvey Way.

She said: “I really did rely on that shop, my mobility is poor, I don’t drive, so it really was perfect for me.

“My son takes me to Morrison’s to do a large shop once a week, but I could walk to the Co-op just to get little bits and bobs and top myself up.

“I’m not sure what I will do now, the other Co-op in Long Road is a long way away, the new one will be too, I can just about to walk to Morrisons, but it is difficult to car - ry the shopping back. It’s a shame to see the Co-op go, all the staff were always so friendly.”

The King Canute pub, in Canvey Road, has been empty since 2014 and the Echo revealed last year that the site would transformed into homes, a vets and a Co-op con - venience store.

Initially, the site had been book - marked for completion in early 2018, but setbacks mean it will be unlikely to be completed until May, at the earliest.

Plans to build a veterinary prac - tice and two three-bedroom hous - es in the car park were approved in September. The first floor of the building will also be converted into two flats.

Campaigners feared develop - ment around the historic pub change beyond recognition.

But Castle Point Council’s plan - ning committee imposed a condi - tion on Novellus that the facade of the building must remain un - touched. Star Co-operative also own the Co-op in Long Road.