Two artisan foodie businesses have set up shop in a waterfront location within Winchburgh’s emerging town centre continues to take shape.

Barista-brewed coffee and indulgent gelato made to a traditional Italian recipe will be on offer to visitors to Winchburgh Marina, the “West Lothian Riviera” which opened earlier this year.

As part of the development of Winchburgh Marina, the two established businesses – Villaggio Gelato and The Wee Bothy, an offshoot of The Wee Winchburgh Café – will offer a unique al fresco food and drink experience from their new ‘beach hut’ retail units.

The neighbouring foodies will offer treats for all weathers and for all visitors arriving on foot, on wheels, or from the water.

Marguerite Spina of Villaggio Gelato said: “I’m delighted that small businesses in Winchburgh have been offered this opportunity to help us grow.

“I love the location. I really feel the Marina could be the heart of Winchburgh. It’s centrally located and a gateway to drawing visitors who walk/cycle/sail along the canal way. It is a really great location to showcase some of the local, small businesses. In terms of business, I hope that new people who haven’t heard about my gelato will be able to access it now as there is a central point for them to come and visit.”

Irene Mahoney of Wee Winchburgh Café said: “The marina for me has a tranquil vibe, inviting to both residents and visitors and offering a slower pace at certain times of day. It is a place to see moored barges, spot folk peacefully fishing or just watching the day pass by.

“Our quirky beach huts will offer the opportunity to indulge in gelato or cake and coffee, a place where folk can venture out, meet new neighbours and enjoy treats alfresco.

“On a personal note, for me, it feels like an extension to my small cafe at the top of the village, creating another village heartbeat area.”

The enterprise, instigated by Winchburgh Developments Ltd., will benefit a wide range of local producers as suppliers to the beach hut businesses include Cuillin Bakehouse, The Sconnery, NikkisNiceys, Lothian Bakery and Lawsons.

John Hamilton, chief executive of Winchburgh Developments Ltd., said: “It is so important to us that people already with strong roots here have the opportunity to grow with Winchburgh, and we’re delighted that two ambitious businesses have set up shop to welcome visitors to the Marina. We hope their enthusiasm for making the emerging town centre a destination for locals and visitors alike is reflected in the popularity of the Marina for those exploring Winchburgh and stopping off during journeys along the Union Canal.”