New Shetland abattoir to be opened next week

Shetland’s brand new abattoir – sited next to the marts at the north end of Lerwick – is to be given its official opening next week, it has been confirmed.

Members of Shetland Abattoir Cooperative Ltd. (SACL) and Shetland Livestock Marketing Group (SLMG) are being invited to attend the opening event from 6pm on Thursday 20th October, when refreshments will be served to toast the occasion and guests will be given the opportunity to tour around the new facility.

Unlike the existing slaughterhouse at Laxfirth, the new abattoir is equipped to process cattle and pigs as well as sheep and goats. SACL chairman Ronnie Eunson believes its opening comes as a “huge boost” to the isles’ agricultural industry.

Contractors Robertson and Reid worked on the construction of the building, which benefited from a £437,000 grant from the SIC’s economic development unit. It is hoped the abattoir will open the door for local meat to be provided to public bodies, as well as paving the way for more produce to be sold in local shops and supermarkets.