A new £1.5million shopping centre has been completed in a Highland village – creating more than 50 jobs.
Co-op Food is expected to open the doors of its new store in Conon Bridge this spring after work finished at the one acre site.
Aberdeen-based property and investment firm West Coast Estates is behind the “Braes of Conon Shopping” development, which also includes two other retail units.
The developer, which unveiled the plans in September last year, said it would create up to 40 retail and 12 construction jobs.
The work was carried out by local contractor Compass Building and Construction Services.
The other two retail units occupy 1,015 sq ft and are next to the Co-op, which includes 38 car parking spaces as well as delivery access.
West Coast Estates director Iftikar Mian said there had been huge interest expressed from potential occupiers of the other shops.
“One of our guiding principles is to invest in local communities where we can help businesses set up and serve the people who live there,” he said.
“The Braes of Conon neighbourhood retail development is a good example of just that.
“The Co-op will offer people greater choice and create job opportunities on people’s doorstep while two purpose built retail units give local businesses the ability to operate within the community.
“We’ve had a good level of interest in the units and I’m sure they will be a popular option with business owners in the area.”
Ian Mason, Co-op’s regional acquisitions manager, said: “Following the announcement of our plans to invest £11m in 20 new stores across Scotland, we’ve been delighted to work with the team at West Coast Estates on our latest store at Conon Bridge.
“The Co-op is a community retailer and we’re looking forward to becoming part of everyday village life by ensuring locals have a great choice of quality food and the opportunity to raise funds for their own local groups and causes with our exciting new membership scheme.”
