Pub bid for Bairds site?
Speculation mounts over fresh bid
Hamilton town centre’s largest empty unit could soon have a new occupant.
The Hamilton Advertiser understands that JD Wetherspoon are keen to revisit their application for the former Bairds building.
And the speculation has come as a welcome boost to some business owners.
Pub giant JD Wetherspoon are not commenting on the rumour that they are revisiting their application to develop the former Bairds building in Hamilton.
The Advertiser understands that they are keen to come to the town and some business owners were this week delighted by the prospect.
However JD Wetherspoon would neither confirm or deny the speculation.
A spokesperson for the company said: “We do not wish to comment on this.”
The Bairds building has lain empty since it closed in February 2014, with the loss of 53 jobs.
JD Wetherspoon had expressed an interest in taking over the vacant site in 2015, but in January 2016 they confirmed they were no longer pursuing plans to turn it into a hotel/ restaurant.
The news came as a huge blow to the town and was met with dismay at the time.
A spokesperson for South Lanarkshire Council said: “No application has been lodged with South Lanarkshire Council for this site.”
Andrew Henderson, owner of Henderson of Hamilton butchers, who are situated in the town’s New Cross Centre, is happy at the prospect of JD Wetherspoon taking on the Bairds building.
He said: “The prospect of Wetherspoon’s having a revived interest in the old Bairds comes as great news.
“We have been trading in the town for almost 30 years and whilst we have regular loyal customers, we notice a huge drop in foot fall.
“The planned initiative by the council to open up Quarry Street to traffic will encourage local people to use local shops due to the convenience factor alone.
“Being able to park in close proximity to the shop of your choice definitely influences where people buy. Hamilton, like many traditional town centres has suffered due to the development of retail parks and the ease of parking that is offered.
“I hope for Hamilton town centre, it’s not a case of too little too late from our council planners.”
Hamilton Business Improvement District (BID) would not be drawn on any prospect of JD Wetherspoon moving into the former Bairds site.
However, in recent months the town has seen some new investment.
Gareth Walker, manager of the BID, said: “The development of the Palace is going really well, and the Regent Centre has gained a new furniture store and a carpet shop in recent months.
“It was also good to have a new ladieswear shop in the town with Wilkies and it seems to be very busy. Twenty One restaurant on Campbell Street and Time on Cadzow Street are also great additions.
“Castle Street has seen the opening of new photography business Jillian Clark Photography, so it’s good to see these units fill.”