HELENSBURGH residents and businesses can now give their views on the redevelopment of the town’s Waterfront site, with a consultation open.
Only two questions are asked as part of the process, one asking whether a respondent is from a community council or a community body, or a member of the public.
The second question is a box asking “Please provide your views on the proposal”, which is for the development of a single-storey supermarket along with three small retail units, a skatepark area and additional parking.
The consultation is now open through Argyll and Bute Council’s website and will close at noon on Monday, August 10.
A statement published with the consultation said: “Helensburgh Waterfront is being redeveloped in phases as part of a masterplan that has been shaped by public views and developed over a number of years.
“The first phase comprising a new leisure centre, public car park and waterfront walkways/public realm has been delivered alongside the demolition of the old swimming pool.
“The next phase is the redevelopment of the site of the former swimming pool and adjacent car parking for commercial use/car parking to complete the agreed masterplan. This area is the subject of this consultation and extends to 1.38 acres (5,600sqm) or thereby.
“The proposal from the preferred developer (Forrest Developments Ltd) for this commercial area is for the development of a single storey local supermarket along with three small retail units, a skatepark area and additional car parking.
“In brief, this development is the final piece of the jigsaw in a mixed-use scheme that will create jobs and encourage more people to shop locally instead of travelling to outlying retail locations.
“This is supported by a retail study by independent specialists who confirmed that new retail space in this location could benefit Helensburgh, by reducing the need for people to go outside the area for retail, so keeping expenditure in the town; increasing reasons for others to come and spend in the town, on retail and leisure services; and in a location accessible by those using public transport as well as car users.
“No decision has been taken at this stage on the sale of the site and the background above along with the consultation responses will assist the council to decide how to proceed.”
The council also said: “While the original pier and harbour are not currently in use, there is a community proposal to open the pier again which is being supported by the council.
“The pier and harbour could function effectively if brought back into use, alongside the development proposed here. The remainder of the wider waterfront development area is utilised for the Helensburgh Leisure Centre, town centre parking and public walkways.”
The council’s policy and resources committee decided to go to public consultation at a special meeting on Wednesday, June 24.
The council website also said: “All representations received during the consultation period will be properly considered by the council and taken into account before any decision is made.”
To access the consultation, visit the council website at argyll-bute.gov.uk
