The former boss of the group charged with boosting the fortunes of Peterhead town centre is to open a cafe just yards from his former shop.
Iain Sutherland was the manager of the Peterhead business improvement district (Bid) until he quit the post in March.
He and his wife Elizabeth ran the gift and card shop Something Special on Marischal Street for 16 years, but closed down last month.
Now Mr Sutherland is hoping to open a gift shop and tea room called A Special Treat , bringing back to life the space previously occupied by birthday cake shop Edible Creations.
Mr Sutherland, who is also a councillor for the Peterhead North and Rattray ward, did not want to comment on his new venture.
But staff could be seen working inside, with temporary “opening soon” signs teasing shoppers.
After announcing of the closure of Something Special, Mr Sutherland said he and his wife were “restructuring” their business to adapt to changes on the high street.
He said: “The shop is closing to allow our company to adapt to the high street moving from retail to other services.
“We are restructuring our business by closing 38 Marischal Street and we are working on changing our business model and location.
“We are working on the new business model and location at the moment.
“No jobs are expected to be at risk.”
Plans for new signage at the shop will be considered by planning officers.