Lindsays Commercial Property team have recently helped secure new property for St Columba’s Hospice to set up its first shop and community hub in East Lothian

St Columba’s Hospice is to open its first charity shop and community hub in East Lothian next year following the acquisition of 67 High Street in Haddington with the assistance of Scott Geekie, Senior Associate in Lindsays Commercial Property team.

Scott Geekie worked with Iain Mercer, director of commercial agency (east) for Allied Surveyors Scotland to finalise the deal.  The 1,000 sq ft retail unit has been secured on a new 10-year lease from a private landlord.

The charity, which supports individuals with life-limiting conditions and their families, currently has eight shops and aims to open its Haddington branch in early 2019.

“One of our long-term goals has been to open a charity shop in East Lothian and Haddington is the perfect location to do it,” explained Jon Heggie, Director of Fundraising for St Columba’s Hospice.

“Not only is it a fantastic opportunity for us to reach more people that could benefit from our support, it’s a way for us to really engage with the local community and have a presence on the high street.”

Mr Heggie added: “It has been a pleasure working with Scott Geekie and the team at Lindsays.  The excellent advice and support provided has helped ensure the acquisition of this new unit for St Columba’s Hospice in Haddington which is an important step in enabling us to raise more funds and awareness, and reach for people, throughout East Lothian.”

The new charity shop will act as a “hub” for the organisation, also accommodating office space for a community team which supports people across East Lothian in their own homes.  In addition, it will offer a local meeting point for other health and social care professionals providing palliative care.

Scotsman article link – here.