OPPORTUNITY
Plans to revitalise the centre of Falkirk and boost the broader economy by up to £150 million through new housing, offices, retail space and improved transport links have been unveiled by a businessman born and bred in the town.
Alistair Campbell is founder and managing director of property-developer Bellair, which is behind the Falkirk Business Hub home to more than 30 firms, and said the suggested masterplan could create 500 jobs and a “lasting legacy” for his hometown.
The proposals comprise a redevelopment of the heart of the town centre focused around Falkirk Grahamston train station and surrounding area covering some 6.7 acres, stimulating a potential £50m regeneration of the surrounding area.
The mixed-use development would have two main regeneration anchors; a new Civic Centre to house Falkirk District Council and its key services, and a 500-seat arts venue in the immediate town centre.
Features include new residential property, offering a range of tenure options; com-
0 Bellair director Colin Campbell (left) and father Alistair present the plan
ALISTAIR CAMPBELL mercial, leisure and retail space as well as a new multistorey car park, public plaza area with landscaping and link bridge improving connectivity designed to revitalise the town centre attracting inward investment.
The plans also include improved transport connectivity with a new link to the A9 and “renewed focus” on Falkirk Grahamston station.
Campbell said: “I was born in Falkirk, have worked here all of my life and believe passionately in the long-term viability and future sustainability of the town and surrounding areas.
“I truly believe that this is a comprehensive masterplan, a deliverable visionary development with flexible components in the form of residential, leisure, commercial and transport improvements.”
According to initial plans, about two thirds of the proposed Grahamston development would be allocated to housing, with around 15 per cent for offices, the same again for leisure activities and a further 5 per cent for retail.
I’ve invested significantly to develop this vision, assess its feasibility and present a viable investment and development opportunity