New plans for factory

Shops, restaurant and student accommodation in the pipeline

A FORMER factory could be transformed into a retail and restaurant complex if new proposals come to fruition.

Dundee City Council has received a proposal of applications notice, informing the authority of an upcoming plan to redevelop the former Locarno Works building on Brown Street.

The plans, which would also include student accommodation, are being drawn up by Broughty Ferry-based Torridon Developments.

The firm was previously given permission to redevelop part of the factory into the new headquarters for mental health charity Wellbeing Works around this time last year.

Specific details about the latest redevelopment plans are currently scarce, but members of the public will be given the opportunity to view the proposals online from early next week.

The current Covid-19 lockdown measures mean the developers are unable to hold an exhibition showcasing their plans in person, but there will be an opportunity for the public to pitch questions to developers online later next month.

In an advertisement submitted alongside the notice, the developers said: “Instead of a traditional exhibit, the same information will be produced electronically and made accessible online from May 4.

“On May 20 from 4-8pm, a team of experts, as would have attended an exhibition, will be available via the website – locarnoworks.co.uk – for online chats directly with digital attendees.

“This will enable visitors to communicate directly with the design and advisory team and for them to answer any questions.”

The city council had previously given approval for Wellbeing Works to develop the ground floor of the building into offices and a community hub last year.

The plans included a kitchen and cafe area, which would be used to help train people.

The Locarno Works building on Brown Street.