Future of Clydeview centre on agenda
Community council consultation meeting
Blantyre Community Council last week held another public consultation meeting with regards to the future of the town’s Clydeview Shopping Centre.
The meeting was attended by Asda communications manager Alan Jones, who highlighted the company’s proposals for the Centre, as well as South Lanarkshire Council representative Ian Ross, Phil Prentice, chief officer from Scotland’s Town’s Partnership, Clare Haughey MSP, Lynsey Hamilton, office manager for Ged Killen MP, and Councillors Razzaq, Chalmers and Thomson.
Asda, who own the Clydeview Shopping Centre, have drafted up a redevelopment plan and during the meeting Alan ran through the company’s proposals, which include the demolition of the east wing of the shopping centre, construction of new units, the improvement of the existing car park and upgrade of the current Asda store.
The plans have been met with some controversy, however, with locals voicing concern over the demolition of part of the shopping centre because several of these units host local businesses.
Michael Mcglynn, chairperson of the community council, said the community council is fully committed to the improvement of the Clydeview Shopping Centre and wish to work with Asda and others to achieve this aim.
Phil Prentice, Chief Officer from Scotland’s Towns Partnership added: “Whilst we appreciate that the redevelopment of the Asda site presents some challenges and will involve displacement of some local businesses, overall I feel that the scheme will help modernise Blantyre, create jobs and send a message of confidence to the wider investment market.
“Importantly, it secures the future of an important retail anchor and employer in the town. This could be the catalyst needed to kickstart the regeneration of the town more widely.
“The council and community council can help businesses identify relocation options and then start to think beyond the Asda site.”
An Asda spokesperson said: “Our plans for the Clydeview Shopping Centre are progressing and we were happy to have recently met with the community council and residents.
“Representing a substantial financial investment into Blantyre, the proposals will significantly improve the viability of the shopping centre and help it maintain its function as a shopping destination.”