A preferred developer has been approved to take forward the redevelopment of this key site in the centre of the town.

CCG Scotland/Kingsmead Developments put forward proposals which meet the criteria set out by the council and submitted an offer of around £630,000 to purchase the site. This offer is subject to the necessary planning permission being granted and no further abnormal costs identified during site investigations.

The plans will see a foodstore created with 145 car parking spaces, a three storey development of both retail and residential units, and the demolition of the existing units at 30 to 40 Mitchell Way.

Councillors approved the plans at the infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee this week and also agreed to the demolition works beginning at the end of the month.

Council leader Martin Rooney said: “This is an important step forward in the drive to regenerate Alexandria Town Centre. It’s exciting that local residents will now start to see early progress when the demolition works get under way to pave the way for the beginning of the new development. The council is committed to improving the wellbeing of our communities and this development will help to create a bustling focal point for residents of Alexandria.”

Councillor David McBride, vice convener for infrastructure, regeneration and economic development, added: “A number of improvement works have previously been carried out at Mitchell Way and agreeing these plans will be the final piece of the jigsaw. With the exciting plans for developing Lomond Galleries, coupled with the approval of this project at Mitchell Way there is a lot for the people of Alexandria to look forward to.”

Mitchell Way underwent an initial revamp in 2014 when work was carried out to improve the entrance, upgrade the public areas, remove dated canopies, install new lighting, shutters and signage and carrying out essential repairs.