A HELENSBURGH business leader has pleaded with council bosses to “look at the big picture, rather than the size of the cheque” after it was revealed that early interest has been shown in the proposed commercial development at the town’s revamped waterfront.

A council report revealed that retailers have enquired about the space in front of the new leisure centre, which is due to open in August 2022, with a consultant set to be appointed by Argyll and Bute Council by the end of this year to progress plans.

The authority’s executive director Douglas Hendry highlighted the “positive” news in a report to be considered by members of the Helensburgh and Lomond area committee on Friday.

However, Vivien Dance, chief executive of the Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce, warned those involved in the project not to simply accept the highest bid for the retail site.

 

The new leisure centre is expected to be complete in August 2022

The new leisure centre is expected to be complete in August 2022

 

She said: “I am sure the council’s executive director is delighted to recognise an early interest from retailers and developers for the seafront site.

“His interest will be purely financial, looking for the best return to the council coffers with little regard to what is really important for that site, how it complements the town and its current retail and commercial base.

“Little regard will be given to how the use of the site will blend in to the town, diversify its offering and attract more visitors and residents to the town centre by adding a new dimension to Helensburgh’s current strengths.

“The site will go to the highest bidder, irrespective of any input from those who already have a commercial interest in the town and a wealth of experience to share.

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“If Mr Hendry is serious about taking forward this site in the best interests of the town by looking at the big picture rather than the size of the cheque, we offer an invitation to him to come and talk to us to share plans and ideas rather than hiding behind commercial confidentiality as has happened in the past.

“We all have a vested interest in getting this right, rather than getting it done, and of course we will want to know the details for the skate park which was promised by elected members for the site.”

A separate report also gives councillors an update on the progress of the construction of the leisure centre. It assures that the project remains on schedule and within budget.

Mr Hendry said: “On Tuesday, August 31 we celebrated the first anniversary of Heron Bros Ltd starting on-site.

 

The northern part of the current site - including this section of car park and the existing swimming pool - has been earmarked for retail use in the waterfront development

The northern part of the current site - including this section of car park and the existing swimming pool - has been earmarked for retail use in the waterfront development

 

“With ongoing Covid restrictions, it has taken a huge team effort from the council, Heron Bros Ltd and our internal and external design consultants to get us to this important milestone.

“The progress achieved in the face of considerable challenge is a testament to the power of partnership and professionalism.

"It is all the more impressive given all the back office staff behind the waterfront development are working remotely to deliver the project.

“Heron Bros has continued to make significant progress against their contract programme. The building structure is complete along with all the glazing installed.

READ MORE: 'Major construction milestone' reached in Helensburgh waterfront project

“The flood defence walls and placement of rock armour around the site is complete, along with the installation of flood gate to the recently completed eastern slipway. Car park and public realm works are well under way.

“The main pool tank and studio pool have both been filled with water and have passed the pre-tiling testing.

“Mechanical and electrical Installations are progressing at a pace to the whole of the building including to ground floor changing village, reception area, plantroom, gym, fitness studios, sauna, steam room etc. Lomond stone walling to the bin store, electric sub-station and retaining walls is complete.”

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