Petition launched to save Ackworth Garden Centre after eviction notice issued to 'brilliant' family-run business
A petition to save Ackworth Garden Centre has reached over a thousand signatures, after news broke that the family-run business was being evicted to make way for a new Co-op store.
The beloved garden centre, also known as Harpins at Ackworth Garden Centre, is set to close on January 31 to make way for a brand-new Co-op food store.
Owned by the Harpin family, the business has been a community staple for almost 26 years, offering gardening essentials, gifts, homeware and a cafe that sells a range of homemade food.
The business, located on Barnsley Road, stems from owner Simon Harpin's childhood passion for gardening and has become what Simon calls a “labour of love” based on his thirty years’ experience within the garden retail industry.
However, Simon and his family are now facing an uncertain future after landlords, the Co-op Group, terminated their lease.
Posting to social media last month, the family shared: “A special Merry Christmas to all our customers, though sadly this will be our last.
“Our landlords, the Co-op, have terminated our lease and so we will be forced to close our store on January 31.”
The post saw hundreds share their support to the team and their anger towards the Co-op Group.
One supporter said: “Heartbreaking that this happening to a fabulous family business and a great asset to our village,” whilst another said: “Why would the Co-op do this?”
A petition has also been launched to try and save the centre – which has already garnered over 1,500 signatures.
Lucy Watkins, who set up the petition, said: “The garden centre is more than just a business; it acts as a brilliant employer, providing jobs to many and supporting the local economy.
“This garden centre is integral to our local identity and accessible to many who are unable to drive, setting it apart as a unique spot in our village.
"Its closure would mean more than just losing a business; we would lose a landmark of togetherness and a cornerstone of our community life.”
Following the vast support from the local community, Simon Harpin said: “We are just a small, family-run business and have been absolutely blown away by the fantastic level of public support we have received.
"It has been an incredibly difficult and emotional time for us, and whilst we knew we had lots of lovely, loyal customers we were absolutely not expecting quite the positive attention our Facebook post would receive.
"It has been a real comfort and joy to see how treasured and valued our garden centre has been by the local community, at a time when we have needed to feel it the most.”
A spokesperson for the Co-op Group, said: “Co-op has a proud history of supporting local communities, building lasting relationships and contributing positively to the communities we serve.
"As part of our future ambition for Ackworth, we are proposing a redevelopment of the current site which will include a brand-new Co-op food store.
“As a responsible landlord, we gave early notice to the tenant in June 2025, which is earlier than required within the contractual agreement, to allow the Garden Centre team additional time to secure alternative accommodation.”