Cumbrae Property Ltd plans to transform the Kinloch Primary School site into a development featuring an outlet from bakery firm Greggs alongside a new 6,000sqft Sainsbury’s food store.

It is hoped the development, which aims to deliver 50 new jobs, will be ready in time for the Open Championship at Carnoustie next summer.

The development has been brought forward in response to ideas which emerged from the Carnoustie design charrette.

The prime Links Avenue location was previously the subject of a locally-led community hub plan, with hopes that it might host a town cinema.

The site has not been specifically identified for retail development in the adopted local plan, but Greggs said it was hopeful the local authority would be receptive to the idea.

In its application statement, Cumbrae Property Ltd said: “The overall principle for ‘Kinloch Square’ identified by the charrette is a well-proportioned public space funded by retail development where pedestrian uses take priority over vehicle uses.

“Components were to include a town square, new supermarket, a community cinema, traffic calming and a community church.

“To deliver the concept, the charrette identified the need to allocate the site for a new town square and retailing in general terms.”

The company adds: “It should be highlighted that Greggs has previously investigated locating in Carnoustie but, due to the size and shape of units generally within the identified town centre, was unable to secure a property that meets modern retailer requirements.

“The only option for Greggs is, therefore, a new-build unit. The closest available site to the existing town centre and the only available opportunity for Greggs at this time, and likely for the foreseeable future, is the former Kinloch primary school site.”