Rural shop in Stirling village to reopen three years after fire destroys it as plans are confirmed
Residents in Gargunnock village, Stirling, who have been facing a 14-mile round trip for groceries since their local shop was destroyed in a fire three years ago, are on the verge of having a new store on their doorstep. The Gargunnock Village Store at 1 Main Street has been shut down since the blaze, but thanks to the efforts of the Gargunnock Community Council and Gargunnock Community Trust, plans are in motion to reopen the shop as a community asset for the 900 villagers. The shop was previously managed by Alistair and Violet Weir.
After the Stirling District Licensing Board granted a licence for the premises this week, it was announced that a new tenant, Ashok Pothugunta, and store manager, Vijay, have been appointed by Gargunnock Community Shop Ltd to run the store. With shopfitting soon to commence, the countdown to the grand opening has officially begun. Ashok comes with over two decades of experience in managing convenience stores across the UK, including two Scotmid sites, ensuring a successful and thriving retail experience for all customers.
To fund the restoration of the shop, a Community Benefit Society (CBS) named Gargunnock Community Shop Ltd was established, with a volunteer management committee overseeing the aim to reopen by December 2024. The group has secured significant grants for the shop building renovation, including a Community Ownership Fund and a Scottish Land Fund grant. Locals have also been actively fundraising for a new roof, with many buying community shares in the shop. The hope is to reinvest any surplus profit into community initiatives and village improvements.
At a recent meeting, the licensing board granted a provisional premises licence, allowing alcohol sales in the shop from 10am to 10pm daily, and for alcohol to be included in home deliveries if such a service is introduced in the future. The community-driven project, which has received financial support from local investors, grants, and third-party funding, aims to operate as an eco-friendly store with added security measures in place.
Chair Councillor Alasdair Tollemache expressed his support for the initiative, wishing the community the best of luck in their new venture. The reopening of the Gargunnock village shop is a testament to the resilience and determination of the local community to restore an essential service that will benefit all residents.
Insights and Summary:
The story of the Gargunnock village shop’s revival showcases the power of community spirit and determination in overcoming challenges. The proactive efforts of the Gargunnock Community Council and Trust, alongside local residents and investors, have paved the way for the return of a vital resource that will greatly benefit the village. The appointment of experienced professionals to manage the new store signals a commitment to providing a high-quality retail experience for customers. With a focus on sustainability and community reinvestment, the Gargunnock village shop is set to not only meet the needs of residents but also foster a sense of pride and ownership among the community.