Since the village shop closed in 2020, a group of villagers have been exploring how to create a sustainable community shop and café for Kirtlington.
A public meeting was held in 2022 with speakers from other local community shops and a chance for villagers to ask questions. Following this event, people were asked to volunteer to help, and a steering group was formed to run the project.
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🌟NEWS FLASH: WE ARE GOING AHEAD🌟
Thanks to the generosity and commitment of 220 shareholders, combined with small grants, sponsorship and donations, 82% of the costs of the project have now been raised. The Management Committee is confident that the remaining funds can be found over the next few months.
Following a meeting with investors, it was unanimously resolved that we should proceed with the construction of the shop and café next to the Village Hall.
An order has been placed for the proposed building and the process takes about 16 weeks from ordering to completion on site.
During this time, the committee will continue to raise the remaining funds needed to equip the shop and café and fill the shelves, with a view to opening this summer.
Attracting donations via our Friends of Kirtlington Shop scheme
VOLUNTEERING!
The vital ingredient in the success of this project is YOU!
We are inviting everyone to consider volunteering in the shop and café: regular slots of 2-3 hours a week or just being available on an occasional basis – tasks range from managing the till to making coffee, stocking shelves and clearing tables. And, always, making cakes! There will be something for everyone in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, where everyone has a part to play.
Our previous events that demonstrate the community impact and engagement
FEBRUARY 2026
Update for Investors
We have put together this slideshow to update investors and anyone else interested in seeing our current progress. There are also some great statistics about the success of other community shops around the UK.