By Hannah Wood

A CASTLEHILL shop celebrated its contemporary new site with residents at a fun-filled open day last week.

Festivities at the Day-Today store included the chance to sample a variety of food and beverages, face painting, and an ice cream van providing sweet treats outside.

The building was constructed as a part of the Carrick Terrace housing development, which features 31 new energy efficient homes.

Shopkeeper Zia Haq was offered the chance to run the store by developers, as his former business had been the last remaining on the mostly derelict site before building began.

Once demolished, the shop operated out of a portable cabin for a year before moving into the new premises in November when work was completed.

Read more: New housing development unveiled at Carrick Terrace, Castlehill

There was a real sense of community at the event organised to celebrate the state-of-the-art store, with the shop owner commenting: “It’s a good turn-out, and everyone seems to be really enjoying themselves.”

“We wanted the chance to thank the local community who have been really supportive over the years and also let people know that we are here and back in business.”

Representatives from the Scottish Grocers Federation were present to promote their Healthy Living Programme, which aims to increase the range, quality and affordability of healthy products available from community retailers.

A.G Barr were similarly handing out free samples of their products at Friday’s event, including the Scottish staple Irn Bru.

The soft drinks brand representative Karon Stirling said: “The space is amazing, I remember visiting the old shop and its unrecognisable compared to now.”

Depute Provost Councillor Karen Conaghan said: “It’s a great purpose-built shop that will serve the area. Zia is a really important part of the community. It’s amazing to see residents supporting him.”