A landmark supermarket and post office in Oxford has served its final customers, ending a remarkable 134-year chapter in the community's history.
End of an Era for Headington High Street
The Co-op store on London Road in Headington, Oxford, closed its doors permanently on January 3, 2026. The attached Post Office branch also ceased trading, with the entire building now slated for demolition. This decisive move follows a planning approval granted by Oxford City Council in October, which will see the site redeveloped into laboratory facilities.
Community Backlash and Petition to Save Services
The closure has sparked significant concern among residents, who are facing the loss of two essential services. A petition to save the Post Office garnered over 1,200 signatures, highlighting its importance to the local area. If the demolition proceeds, it will mark the first time in 111 years that this part of Oxford has been without a postal service.
Labour MP for Oxford East, Anneliese Dodds, acknowledged the loss but offered a glimmer of hope. "Although sadly the Co-op branch will be closing its doors," she stated, "Post Office have received interest in a new post office branch nearby. I will keep pushing them to act quickly to maintain these vital services."
A Hub More Than Just a Shop
Local councillors have echoed the deep-seated worries of constituents. Labour city councillor Mike Rowley reported that residents from Headington, Barton, and Sandhills consistently emphasised the value of the Post Office on their high street. Chewe Munkonge, Labour councillor for Quarry and Risinghurst, stressed the site's role as a crucial community hub. "This vital service is more than just a place to send letters or collect parcels," he said. "It is a hub for many residents, especially older people and those who can’t easily travel further afield."
The transition from a long-standing retail and social anchor to a science-focused development underscores the changing face of local high streets and the tangible impact of urban planning decisions on community cohesion.
