News / ‘Full steam ahead’ for new pizzeria
BUILDING work on a long-awaited Italian restaurant half way between Voe and Brae finally got underway on Tuesday.
Local businessman Henry (Francesco) MacColl hit the headlines in November 2015 after planners initially refused to grant him permission to build a 24-seat eatery opposite his home at Parkgate.
Officers said MacColl’s proposal would encourage car usage and would therefore contribute to climate change.
Following a public outcry and an appeal to overturn the decision, MacColl finally got the green light for his venture from the Shetland Islands Council’s planning review board two years ago.
Following a number of setbacks and rumours that the project would not happen, it has taken MacColl until now to commence with his venture.
Speaking on Tuesday afternoon while the digging of the foundation was underway, MacColl, whose mother hails from Naples, said he has always had the desire to have an authentic Italian eatery for Shetland customers.
“The drive was always there,” he said. “The oven is here, shipped over from Verona in Italy.
“We are now working to get the foundation in, put the oven in and build the kit around it. Full steam ahead!”
MacColl said he was hopeful to be able to open Enrico’s Cuccina di Napoli pizzeria before Christmas, and added that he was ready to take bookings.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
