Community Co-op Store Opens

UBC Hebrides has just completed refurbishing a community owned shop that serves the district of Uig on the Isle of Lewis. The improvements totalling over £500,000 include a laundrette, refreshments zone, public toilet and a video conference room.

Managing director of UBC Hebrides, Iain Peteranna said: "We're delighted to have been involved in the refurbishment of the Uig Community Co-op. It's a facility that will help make a real difference to the lives of the 400 residents of Uig, and provide a useful resource for the many who visit the area. It's a credit to all in the commnity who had the foresight to take over the shop and secure investment for an enhanced community facility. I, and everyone at UBC Hebrides wish the community and those running the shop, the very best for the future". 

And Len Wardle, chairman of the UK Co-operative Group, which supports the community run enterprise, travelled from England for the occasion. "Today is a very special day for Uig and also for the Co-operative group," he said. "We are a huge organisation that offers many services - we have over 2,000 stores across the UK - but our basic principle is to help small communities grow and prosper.

"What has been achieved here is admirable, and it is all down to the hard work and dedication. What is next I ask? I am quite sure you will not stop here!"

Local councillor Norman A Macdonald who helped spearhead the development said; “This has been a triumph for our community – it’s a fantastic facility and adds vital services to our area”.

The shop will also incorporate renewable energy sources over the next few months. Solar panels and a small turbine are to be added - helping reduce the Co-operative's energy bills.

Pictured below are: (Left to Right) UBC Site Agent Robert MacLeod, UBC Quantity Surveyor Gary MacLeod, Chairman UK Co-operative Group Len Wardle, Chairman Uig Development Trust Dave Newton and Councillor Norman A MacDonald