Extra Foods pulls plug

Chris Clegg
For South Peace News

The owner of the subdivision where the Extra Foods grocery store was going to be built this year is “extremely disappointed” with news last week the project is on hold. “With the diverse population and the number of people and the economy, I think they’re making a mistake,” says Nick Shybunia, speaking on behalf of H.P. Farm Supply. The news shocked Shybunia, who did not know of the decision until contacted by South Peace News July 18. “There are no immediate plans to develop,” says Tara Dudar, assistant manager, Public Affairs Bureau, Westfair Foods, from her Calgary office. She did not elaborate on the reasons for the company’s decision, however. “It’s more of a long-term (project),” says Dudar. “There has been nothing decided yet.” Dudar adds Westfair will keep ownership of the land in the town’s west end, which they acquired about two years ago from H.P. Farm Supply. As recent as January, plans were announced to start construction this summer and complete the project within six months. Lori Stene, manager, Public Affairs Bureau, Westfair Foods, said at the time the construction timeline will depend on a number of factors, starting with weather and availability of labour. Stene added at the time that Westfair had every intention of developing in High Prairie and that local residents should not be deterred by delays. Obviously, things changed and the company is not elaborating. The design of the Extra Foods building was to be similar to others but will be slightly modified to suit the community. The news is the second bitter economic blow for H.P. Farm Supply this year. Earlier, Peace Country Health decided to move the location of the new High Prairie Hospital to land owned by Peavine Metis Settlement in the town’s east end.

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