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Controversial supermarket plan for Helensburgh waterfront rejected by council
Overview
Argyll & Bute Council has rejected a controversial plan to build a supermarket on Helensburgh's waterfront following significant local opposition. A public consultation showed that 94.8 per cent of respondents were against the proposal, which would have used common good land in front of the town's leisure centre. Councillors voted against selling the land for commercial use, and the Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee will now identify alternative, financially sustainable options for the site in consultation with the community.
Key points
- Argyll & Bute Council rejected the supermarket plan following significant local opposition.
- A public consultation revealed that 94.8% of more than 3,400 responses opposed the development.
- The proposal involved building a supermarket, three retail units, and a skatepark on vacant land in front of the leisure centre.
- Locals and Helensburgh Community Council argued the supermarket was unnecessary, would harm local businesses, and would detract from the town's character.
- Councillors voted not to sell the land for commercial use.
- The Helensburgh and Lomond Area Committee will now work on alternative options for the waterfront site with the community.