Former St Ninians restaurant, Hollybank, located on Glasgow Road, is set for a major transformation. The longstanding restaurant, in operation since 1991, was recently put up for sale. Plans have been submitted to Stirling Council by W S Dunsire for the conversion of the premises into a veterinary surgery. The proposal includes partial demolition, alteration, extension, and change of use of the existing bar restaurant to cater to the new veterinary services.
According to documents submitted with the application, the decision to convert the building into a vets’ surgery comes in response to challenges faced by the hospitality industry, leading to the owners’ choice to sell the property. The premises, located at 58 Glasgow Road, will be vacated by the end of the year pending approval of the planning application. The transformation is expected to breathe new life into the building, creating job opportunities in the form of skilled positions within the veterinary sector for the local community.
The site, situated on its grounds between Glasgow Road and Borestone Place, comprises various areas including a wooded section, car parking spaces, and access roads. The proposed redevelopment involves retaining the original masonry built property and traditional two-storey extensions while removing modern flat roofed extensions and conservatory additions. The conversion will result in the establishment of consulting rooms, treatment areas, as well as office and staff amenities within the new veterinary surgery facility.
Additionally, landscaping improvements, reconfigured access drives, and enhanced parking facilities with EV charging points are part of the redevelopment plans. The refurbishment project aims to preserve the existing character of the original building while incorporating new elements to accommodate the requirements of a veterinary clinic.
In summary, the upcoming transformation of the former St Ninians restaurant into a veterinary surgery signifies a shift in land use to meet the evolving needs of the local community. The project not only repurposes a longstanding establishment but also contributes to job creation and economic growth in the area. The meticulous planning and design aspects of the refurbishment highlight a balanced approach to preserving heritage while adapting to modern demands in the healthcare sector.