A former bookmakers on Helensburgh seafront is set for a facelift after planning permission was granted for a new shopfront.
The former William Hill premises at 9 West Clyde Street have lain vacant since the bookmakers left a number of years ago.
But Karl Giarchi’s plans for a new shopfront (above) have been approved by Argyll and Bute Council planning officials, although there is no indication of a new tenant moving in.
Only one objection to the proposal was lodged, relating to the use of public funding. Officers deemed the concerns not to be a relevant planning consideration.
An official said in a handling report: “Due to lack of maintenance and poor quality repairs, this particular unit has been selected as a priority building repair project under the Helensburgh Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS). This grant enables works for the fabric repair to the exterior of the buildings.
“All the proposed works represent an improvement to the appearance and fabric of the building and will have a positive impact upon the character and appearance of the conservation area and the town centre.
“The council’s vision is to make our main towns better places to live and the works to prominent town centre buildings are consistent with that vision. The application is therefore entirely consistent with the relevant provisions of the development plan and is recommended for approval.”
The official added: “It is evident that investigation into the shopfront’s current defects has been undertaken diligently and that the proposal has been formulated with the aims of bringing the shopfront back into good order with the reinstatement of its traditional appearance.
“It is considered that the proposed high quality design would successfully uplift the aesthetic of the current shopfront thereby enhancing the character of the conservation area.”
So is it not the owners respoibility to maintain their buildings? Another waste of public money and a disgraceful planning department. Due to the fact only one objection was received it did not even go before the PPSL.
The council admit to lack of maintenance but still give funding when buildings like the Clock tower get no funding and the kids still have no skate park. After contacting 15 members of the PPSL 3 replied to me and one sent an “Out of Office” So next time these people come looking for votes, just remember the majority don’t even reply to members of the public contacting them.