Lloydspharmacy confirmed to C+D today (January 2) it is ”in the process of closing” its branch in the Skimped Hill health centre in Bracknell, as it is one of the 190 “commercially unviable” locations where it will cease trading.

“This is an ongoing process, therefore it’s too early to give any further details,” the multiple added.

Sharon Wilkinson, who started the petition three weeks ago on the website change.org, claims the Lloydspharmacy is “closing in March 2018”. At the time of writing, the petition had been signed by 92 supporters.

“The community will miss the helpful staff and the convenience of the pharmacy being next to the surgery,” Ms Wilkinson said.

“Personally I prefer this pharmacy over others as they are always helpful and very quick with prescriptions,” she added. 

Commenting on the petition, Danny Smith said it was his “elderly parents' nearest chemist” and “the only one in walking distance”.

Another commenter, Vera Wright, said having a pharmacy next door to the surgery is “beneficial to the patients”.

Lloydspharmacy did not answer C+D's question as to whether it was aware of the petition, or had responded to the parties who started it.

"Vital" to have a pharmacy

Carol Trower, chief executive of the local pharmaceutical committee (LPC), Pharmacy Thames Valley, said the LPC was not aware of the closure.

Ms Trower said she hoped Lloydspharmacy “would seek a buyer for the contract”, as a “pharmacy is vital in that area”.

“We would be disappointed if this pharmacy closed as it is well-used and appreciated by local customers,” she told C+D.

Where else will Lloydspharmacy cease trading?

You can use C+D's map to view the location of each of the 21 locations where Lloydspharmacy has so far confirmed that it will cease trading. Branches confirmed for closure are marked in purple, while those Lloydspharmacy is still hoping to sell are marked in blue.

This map is live, and will be updated as C+D confirms the locations of other affected Lloydspharmacy branches.