Redevelopment could create 80 new jobs

THE redevelopment of a former Homebase site could lead to 80 new jobs.

Property firm Town Centre Securities (TCS), which owns the site and who brought Waitrose to Milngavie, says it is moving quickly to redevelop the vacant shop and bring employment to the area.

It is understood that a discount supermarket such as Aldi or Lidl are likely front-runners, along with a separate clothes retailer.

Homebase closed its doors last week with the loss of 40 jobs.

TCS said it will be submitting a planning application to East Dunbartonshire Council to completely refurbish the existing store and split it into two units — one for a discount supermarket and one for a non-food retailer.

Richard Lewis, property director, said: “We have consulted with the market and had initial discussions with several retailers, to determine the best re-use of the Homebase unit.

“Retail has undergone dramatic changes in recent years. As responsible property developers we are com- mitted to finding long-term tenants who will bring sustainable jobs to Milngavie, maintain the town’s vibrant retail scene and sit alongside Waitrose. We are sending questionnaires out to households across Milngavie to get feedback from local residents on our proposals and we will then submit a planning application to the council.”