At a meeting this week, members of Argyll and Bute Council’s Helensbugh and Lomond Area Committee unanimously approved steps towards the final phase of the Helensburgh Waterfront Masterplan that will see further investment to the town.

The plan includes marketing the site of the former swimming pool and inviting expressions of interest that will allow a range of operators and developers of all uses to develop proposals.

Councillor Gary Mulvaney, policy lead for finance and commercial services, said: “This is about future proofing the area, creating opportunities for younger generations and providing local employment. Over the last decade, we have seen the benefits of investing millions to the local area from building a new school, to providing open community spaces including Hermitage Park and Colquhoun Square to the newly opened leisure centre. There has also been partnership working with housebuilders to release greenbelt land creating a mix of homes and collaboration with Ministry of Defence as they invest in the area too. These community assets add value to the town.

“As we move to the next phase of the Waterfront Development, we need to test the market to see what would work for and compliment the town. At present, there are no detailed plans to what will go in the space and planning designations for the site are fairly wide ranging. This is why we are inviting proposals from developers and operators to move things forward and get realistic proposals in the current climate.

“Ongoing investment is essential for our towns to thrive. This approach echoes the ‘Town Centre First’ approach to meet the needs of communities and tackle climate change. We look forward to seeing proposals that will unlock further economic success for Helensburgh.”

The report approved by Area Committee Members also confirmed the reinstament of the skatepark equipment early in 2023. This will be a temporary solution until plans are confirmed for the longer-term future of the site along with funding for an enhanced skate park.

Councillors also welcomed ongoing dialogue that is taking place between Helensburgh Community Council and council officers in relation to the Waterfront Development. 

Marketing of the site is in the early stages. The council has appointed Avision Young Surveyors to help with the marketing. A dedicated council webpage with more details will be available in the New Year.

A report with feedback from the marketing process will go back to the Area Committee in 2023.