Hundreds put in funds to save fire-ravaged shop in Scottish village

The venture, Gargunnock Community Shop Limited, has hailed the “successful completion of its community share offer, exceeding expectations”.

The 259 investors contributed a total of £65,415, and the firm said the achievement “highlights the strong support from the Gargunnock community for reviving a vital village amenity”.

Located on the outskirts of Stirling, Gargunnock faced a setback three years ago when its local shop closed, leaving residents without easy access to essential goods.

The shop is set to be fitted out ahead of a December opening (Image: Cornerstone Business Agents) In response, the community formed a Community Benefit Society named Gargunnock Community Shop Ltd, dedicated to restoring the village shop.

A volunteer management committee is currently engaged in an 18-month project to transform the premises, with plans to reopen the shop in December. Since the previous store’s closure following a fire, residents have had to travel up to 14 miles to reach the nearest supermarket, underscoring the urgent need for a local shopping option.

Danielle McRorie-Smith, project manager, said: “We are thrilled our share offer has exceeded its target, and we are extremely grateful to our community and all our funders for their generosity.

“With over £450,000 in grants awarded, we are excited to create a vibrant, environmentally conscious, community-owned store in the heart of Gargunnock. Our goal is to rebuild and preserve a building that has served the community for over 100 years.”

The project is nearing its final stages, with shopfitting set to begin shortly.

Gargunnock Community Shop also announced the appointment of Ashok Pothugunta as the new tenant, who has over two decades experience in the convenience store industry.

The community firm said David Higgins at Cornerstone Business Agents played a crucial role in identifying the new tenant, with over 100 inquiries and five business proposals received.

Christine Phillips, chair of Gargunnock Community Shop, said: “The successful share offer and Ashok’s appointment are pivotal moments for Gargunnock. We are grateful for the community’s support and eager to see Ashok’s vision come to life. This is a significant step toward revitalising our village and providing essential services.”

The firm also said: “As the countdown to the grand opening begins, Gargunnock Community Shop looks forward to welcoming residents and visitors to their new store, fostering community spirit and enhancing the quality of life for all.”

Scottish port set to embark on major expansion after doubling footprint

A Scottish port authority is set to embark on a major expansion after making the multi-million-pound purchase of two new sites next to the port. 

Montrose Port Authority (MPA) has acquired Montrose Commercial Park and the adjacent former Charleton Maternity Home site to nearly double the port’s footprint.

The strategic, multi-million-pound investment is a key element of MPA’s ongoing masterplanning initiative, aimed at meeting the growing demand for industrial space to support Scotland’s offshore energy sector and drive the nation’s energy transition.

Scottish bus company buys coach operator 

Aberdeen-based FirstGroup has bought a coach operator, and highlighted its appetite for other purchases.

The bus and rail group has acquired Anderson Travel, which it described as a “highly experienced” coach operator providing contracted school, private-hire, mini-coach and tour services in and around London.

Anderson has around 40 coaches of varying sizes with bases in central London and Heathrow, FirstGroup noted.