Written By JOSHUA DRAKES

LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE REPORTER

Shelburne's new commissary kitchen at Fiddle Park is now accepting rental applications, providing local food entrepreneurs and community organizations with access to a licensed commercial food preparation space.

The Town of Shelburne announced on Oct. 21 that the shared-use kitchen is available for businesses and individuals looking to prepare products for market, cater events, develop recipes or expand food production.

The facility is designed to support local food entrepreneurs, caterers, bakers, farmers, food producers and community organizations by offering professional food preparation space and commercial-grade equipment.

Located within Fiddle Park, the kitchen provides a food-safe environment suitable for food development, catering, baking, meal preparation and small-batch production.

The space also offers flexible rental options, including access around the clock for those who have specialized needs or workflows.

The kitchen was developed as an economic development initiative to address demand for commercial kitchen space in the community and help local food businesses establish or grow their operations.

Rental rates have been set at $25 per hour, with a minimum four-hour booking. Users must also pay a one-time, refundable $350 security deposit and a $25 custodial fee for each booking.

Those requiring exterior storage can rent space for $200 per quadrant per month. A refundable $50 deposit is also required for a door access fob.

Revenue generated through rentals will help cover the kitchen's ongoing programming, equipment maintenance and operational expenses. 

The project has received financial support from the Shelburne Rotary Club, including contributions raised through the annual Shelburne Economic Development and Rotary Golf Tournament. 

The town said that the kitchen offers an accessible option for local food businesses seeking commercial facilities without having to invest in their own equipment and space.

Applications and additional information about the facility, available equipment and rental arrangements are available through the Town of Shelburne's website at: shelburne.ca/explore-and-play/rentals/fiddle-park