A businessman made the “mad” decision to create new retail units after his village was “decimated” by the closure of a key employer.
Northwood Hygiene shut its papermill in Penygroes, near Caernarfon, last year with the loss of 100 jobs.
Local businessman Eifion Hughes wanted to do something positive for the community and took on a former Co-op unit. He has since converted it into four shops, an office and a warehouse.
He said: “The village was decimated last year when the local papermill closed unexpectedly, with the loss of 100 jobs.
"The Co-op had also moved to a new shop at the far end of the village, leaving the old building vacant and making that side of the village much quieter.”
He added: “A lot of people thought I was mad opening shops during a recession and pandemic, but I have already let two shops and the office.
“All the work has been carried out by local tradesmen and all the materials have been bought locally. I have been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement of local people and can sense a new ‘buzz’ around the village.“
Anyone interested in renting a unit can contact Eifion at e.hughes57@btinternet.com or 07799 177544.