A derelict supermarket building is at the centre of growing frustration over fly-tipping, vandalism and neglect.
The former Co-op store in St John’s, Worcester, has stood empty since it closed in April 2022, after having a presence in the area since the 19th century.
Since then, it has become a hotspot for fly-tipping, graffiti, trespassing and other anti-social behaviour.
Councillor Richard Udall, St John’s county councillor, has written to Co-op chief executive Kate Allum calling for urgent action to secure and maintain the site.
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Councillor Udall said: “The condition of the former store is devaluing St John’s, its unsightly and attracting anti-social behaviour.
“We have had reports of illegal entry into the store and misuse of the former car park.
“The Co-op still have responsibility as landowner, they can’t just walk away and dismiss the concerns of local residents and other traders.
“I know any investment will cost them money, but as a responsible retailer, they need to admit things have gone wrong.”
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Cllr Udall made calls for Co-op to maintain the site by clearing graffiti, cutting back vegetation in the car park, and using CCTV to monitor the site.
He also suggested interim uses for the site.
Councillor Udall said: “If they have no long-term buyers for the site, they should open the area for community use or for short-term rentals.
“The car park is missed by St John’s residents; they could earn an income by opening it again and charging for its use.
“Simply leaving the site as an empty site and leaving it to deteriorate is not acceptable, we deserve better.
“St John’s has served the co-op well for over 130 years, it’s now time the co-op repaid their local members and the St John’s community for such service.”
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Last year, the councillor proposed converting the site into a SEND school, but any plans are yet to materialise.
The site remains up for sale, but has not attracted a buyer in the four years since it closed.
A spokesperson for Co-op said: “We are aware of local concerns regarding the former St John’s store and, as a responsible retailer, take these matters seriously.
“The site is regularly inspected by our third-party maintenance and security partners, with measures in place to maintain the premises, deter unauthorised access and address incidents of anti-social behaviour.”
