Cafe part of company’s proposal for vacant Mackenzie’s building

A CAFE could reopen in the former Mackenzie’s premises in Cunningsburgh if new plans for the building come to fruition.

The former farm shop and cafe has been vacant since 2023, but local company CW Johnson Plant Ltd (CWJ) has expressed an interest in buying the site and relocating its business there.

A change of use planning application has been submitted to the council, and documents show that there would be an intention to reopen the cafe for public use – although it would be on a smaller scale than before.

The plan would be for the company to relocate its business and workshop there from its existing bases in Lerwick and Aithsetter.

The new premises would also serve as a central administration base for CWJ management staff.

The company is also proposing the construction of a new maintenance and repair workshop extension.

The existing external yard would be used for car parking, plant and equipment storage, while a new vehicle/plant washdown facility would also be installed.

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The plans say the proposal would “revitalise a currently vacant site, supporting local employment and economic activity”.

It is anticipated that around 10 employees, including two apprentices, would operate from the site.

Regarding the cafe, the planning documents add: “The café previously served as a valued social hub for residents and community groups, providing a welcoming space for gatherings, informal meetings, and social interactions over coffee and snacks.

“This benefit will be reinstated, fostering community engagement and connectivity once again.”

Speaking on behalf of the applicant, agent Stewart Douglas said a lot of work and thought had gone into the plans.

“It can only be good thing for the local community as well as the site/building and for CWJ’s business activities,” he said.

Douglas added that as it would be the operating centre for the business tipper trucks would be parked up on the site overnight, and at other times when not working such as Sundays.

The large Mackenzie’s building – which was completed in 2017 – is on the market for offers over £425,000, or for lease.