The loo will do for a new village shop

Reporter: KEN BENNETT
Date online: 03 December 2009

PLANS to convert a shabby old toilet block into a shop in a Saddleworth village have been given a boost by a former resident.

Denshaw lost its only shop when the post office closed earlier this year, and since then Councillor Alan Roughley has been campaigning to have a disused toilet in the village centre restored and operated as a co-op by locals.

His idea is supported by former Dobross resident Clare Griffiths, a mother of four who now lives in Calderdale. She took over a closed down toilet in the village of Northowram after seeing it advertised for rent.

She said: “The loo was in a prime position on a main road. It was a small building that was bought from the council at auction for £10,000.

“The owner plastered the building and made a toilet and small kitchen area. He asked people to put their ideas in writing if they were interested in setting up a business in the premises.

“I was looking for a change in career at the time and had always fancied running my own business.

“It was particularly appealing with having young children and the prospect of working five minutes from home.

“The landlord had had tenders from all kinds of businesses ranging from beauty therapy rooms, a designer shoe shop, a pet shop and a newsagents.

“But we were lucky and got the premises which, with the help of my husband Neil, we turned into Northowram’s first delicatessen.

“We sold everything from olives, cheeses and relishes to home-made cakes and muffins and had an extensive sandwich menu.”

Although Mrs Griffiths has now moved into a charity fund-raiser’s role, the business still operates.

She added: “The deli had a lovely charm to it and we always had a laugh with our passing trade when we would tell them what it had once been!

“After two successful years we sold the business and it is now a simple sandwich shop and does a roaring trade.

“I think the Denshaw idea is splendid. It could be a great asset to the village.”

Councillor Roughley added: “Hearing from someone who has actually run a business from a converted loo is really encouraging.

“I am planning to take some locals to see another co-operative operation in Midgeley near Mythomroyd and hope we can move the idea forward if there is enough interest.”

Publican Jane Gregson ,who has just moved to The Junction Inn next to the Denshaw toilet block, said: “The shop is a really good idea.

“As it is, we have to travel several miles to shop. It would certainly get my patronage.”