A COMMUNITY councillor aims to reopen a local store using an innovative fundraising campaign which has proved a huge success in the USA.

Ferhan Ashiq has launched a crowdfunding web page to encourage locals to back his plans to relaunch Levenhall Village Store, Musselburgh.

The Prestonpans community councillor has taken ownership of the store, which closed last year, but he needs to raise £60,000 to refurbish it before it opens its doors again.

And he hopes the community will get behind his bid to be the first independent convenience retailer to use this method of fundraising in Scotland.

He said: “The money will provide the community with their own village store and I will give back to them as much as possible.” Ferhan currently runs the Day-Today on Redburn Road, Prestonpans.

He said he wants to bring his experience from there to help give Levenhall back its local store.

He said: “As a passing patron of the store, the only one in Levenhall, I saw an opportunity to bring it back to its full glory.

“One of my central goals was a commitment to help alleviate local unemployment levels by creating seven new jobs.

“Using my experiences gained from operating the successful Day-Today, I have created a vision of a potentially award-wining, economically viable entity that the local community can and will be proud of.” The aim is to raise about £40,000 through crowdfunding. The unique financial initiative, which began in the US, encourages communities to rally together via a large group of people all investing a small amount to get projects off the ground.

Ferhan believes it is not only a better way to raise funds than going to a bank, but involves the community in sharing a vision.

He said: “This way of funding isn’t begging – it’s a way to get a community response. I will offer those who donate discounts and free items. If they use their money wisely they could easily get their donations back.” If the funding campaign is successful, the store will be open within three months. If not, it will take much longer to open.

The money is required to modernise the premises and purchase fridges, a new ceiling, an air conditioning system and, among other items, a hot food counter.

The new store will offer local produce; a website click and collect service; a partnership with the launderette for a drop-off service; an ATM, and food to go.

Ferhan will keep the crowdfunding page open to investors for a month.

To learn more about the scheme, log on to www.crowdfunder.co.uk and search ‘Levenhall’.