A church-run community fridge, which initially came up against opposition from businesses in Dundee’s leafy West End has now won widespread backing.
The proposal from the Gate Church to construct a so-called community fridge in a car park across from its Perth Road premises earlier this year was initially met with concern.
However, following consultation between the religious group and business owners, including the Tartan Cafe, the scheme has now been given universal support.
Plans for the unit, on land to the east of Millers Wynd, were submitted to the Dundee City Council planning department this week.
Supermarkets and other local food businesses will be able to donate items for the fridge, which will be collected by Gate staff in an electric vehicle.
Everyone would have access to the fridge, which if approved could be open by spring of next year.
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The aim is to stock it with sealed and unopened low-risk food and juice within use-by dates, along with fresh fruit and vegetables, as part of wider efforts to reduce waste and affect climate change.
James Anthony, project manager at Gate Church International, said: “We have met with several local residents and businesses to discuss the plans for Dundee’s West End community fridge.
“Their feedback and input has helped shape the revised architectural design which was submitted to Dundee City Council last week for planning permission.
“We are pleased to have the full support of many local businesses, including Tartan Coffee House, and look forward to working alongside all members of the West End community on this exciting project which we hope to launch during March 2019.”
The owner of the Tartan Coffee House apologised earlier this year following a backlash to his comments when the idea of the fridge was first put to him.
Noel Kemlo said he did not convey his point well when he spoke to The Courier about the initial proposals – saying the fridge would bring “undesirables” to the area.
His words resulted in heated criticism on social media.
The Scottish government, through its Keep Scotland Beautiful programme, has provided a grant for Gate to open the fridge.
It is estimated the average family wastes as much as £810 worth of produce every year by throwing away food and drink which could have been eaten.
