Argyll and Bute Council leaders have stood by their decision to propose a commercial development at Helensburgh’s waterfront, stating it will bring about “much-needed job opportunities” to the town centre. A response to queries raised during a recent meeting of local councillors has been shared on the council’s website, shedding light on some concerns but leaving others, such as the fate of Helensburgh’s Skatepark, unresolved. The contentious plan to introduce a supermarket on the waterfront has faced opposition, with over 3,700 individuals signing a petition objecting to the proposal. The petition, initiated by the town’s community council, argues that a retail establishment could jeopardise local businesses and disrupt the cherished waterfront views that draw tourists to Helensburgh.
At a Helensburgh and Lomond area committee gathering on September 10, several members of the public raised questions regarding the waterfront development. Councillor Fiona Howard, presiding over the meeting, assured that all queries on the topic would be thoroughly addressed by officials. The council’s policy and resources committee had previously announced the selection of Forrest Development Ltd as the preferred bidder for the waterfront site, located in front of Helensburgh Leisure Centre. The council emphasised the potential for job creation in the town centre, aligning with national and local planning policies favouring retail spaces within town centres to support the economy and local employment.
The council highlighted its commitment to bolstering Helensburgh’s town centre by retaining retail expenditure within the area and preventing outflows to locations like Dumbarton. Emphasising the importance of public open spaces in Helensburgh, such as Colquhoun Square and Kidston Park, the council mentioned the potential for a dynamic mix of commercial and open areas to create a vibrant environment. While some questions from the meeting remain unanswered on the council’s website, Jackie Hood from Helensburgh Skatepark Project expressed concerns over the council’s pursuit of alternative locations for the skatepark, despite the group’s preference for the waterfront site.
Regarding the skatepark’s relocation, Hood questioned the council’s decision-making process and the consideration of Hermitage Park as an alternative site after its past dismissal as unfeasible. Although an official response to this specific issue is pending, Hood shared a response she received, indicating ongoing discussions between officers and the group on potential alternative proposals. The council’s exploration of Kidston Park as an alternative location, with Hermitage Park as a secondary option, suggests a continued dialogue with the skatepark project group to evaluate feasible options. As discussions progress, clarity on the way forward is expected to emerge.
Overall, the council’s stance on the Helensburgh waterfront development project underscores the potential economic benefits and aims to strike a balance between commercial ventures and public spaces to enhance the town centre’s appeal. The community’s concerns, particularly regarding local businesses, tourism, and recreational facilities, remain pivotal in shaping the ongoing debate around the proposed commercial development. As the council addresses queries and deliberates on alternative solutions, the future of Helensburgh’s waterfront hangs in the balance, awaiting further developments and community engagement.