A “SOCIAL supermarket” offering cut-price food will open its doors on Canvey this summer, it has been confirmed.

Essex County Council has announced the shop will aim to fill the gap between food banks and supermarkets.

It builds on last year’s success which saw the first-of-its kind store, Hope Community Supermarket, launch at the Laindon Community Centre to help struggling residents through the cost-of-living crisis.

It has fast become a “viral community hub” where communities and neighbours are brought together.

Customers will be able to shop freely and choose what they spend their money on, receiving an overall discount on their purchases.

Scouting for delivery partners to create the new shop is underway as well as welcoming applications from stakeholders or community groups who are knowledgeable and understand the area and its community needs to run the planned, nonprofit venue.

Colchester will also be receiving a community supermarket.

Louise McKinlay, deputy leader of Essex County Council and councillor responsible for community, partnerships and performance, said: “I am delighted that we are now in a position to establish two further community supermarkets in Colchester and Canvey.

“The delivery of this programme across the county plays a vital role in our work to level up Essex and I am very much looking forward to seeing these two new stores up and running later in the summer.”

This “exciting, tender” opportunity is part of the council’s next phase commitment to continue its work with local partners and communities and bring community supermarkets to “every district in Essex”.

Applications are now being taken from stakeholders or community groups who are knowledgeable and understand the area to help run it.

To submit an application or ask questions about this opportunity please access ITT CO0354 - Bringing Community Supermarkets to Essex Phase Two at https://lnkd.in/ev4dCrGh - the project reference is DN669368.

Responses need to be sent in by noon on Monday, June 12.