Two successful Ayrshire businessmen are teaming up to revitalise a prime shopping location in Galston, East Ayrshire, previously occupied by a Co-op store that has been vacant for six years.
Gareth Downie, Managing Director of Downie Capital, and Paul McIvor, Managing Director of AQS Ltd, are spearheading an ambitious project to breathe new life into the 19,000 sq ft space. Subject to planning approval, the site will be transformed into Loudoun Retail Park, with Farmfoods taking up the primary retail space.
The redevelopment plans, submitted in mid-September 2024, include an 11,000 sq ft Farmfoods store alongside 5,000 sq ft of additional retail units, plus 2,500 sq ft of office space. The project is expected to bring a significant boost to the local economy, creating over 60 long-term jobs.
Gareth Downie expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying:
“It will be great to be able to bring this building back to life and, more importantly, create a significant number of jobs within quality national retailers, re-establishing an important retail hub for the area.”
The development also aligns with modern sustainability efforts, featuring eight ultra-rapid EV charging bays hosted by Swarco. These much-needed facilities are a key addition as the region moves towards a Net Zero future.
David McDowall, Head of Economic Growth at East Ayrshire Council, praised the initiative:
“Redevelopment of an existing vacant and derelict shop unit is the kind of economic regeneration investment which the Council has been actively encouraging, bringing national names into the retail mix of the town and in line with our Community Wealth Building principles creating job opportunities for the local community.”
Situated strategically along the Irvine Valley corridor, Loudoun Retail Park is expected to attract significant footfall, with an analysis revealing 24,000 daily car movements passing the site. With 100 parking bays, the site has the potential to offer click-and-collect and delivery services in the future.
Gareth Downie further highlighted the project’s local impact:
“We will also be using local contractors for all construction works and expect to create more than 60 long-term jobs.”
The project has received strong support from East Ayrshire Council, as it aligns with their goals of promoting inward investment and job creation. The final development design, including its layout and appearance, is awaiting approval as part of the ongoing planning process.
For more details on the planning application, visit Planning Reference Number - 24/0446/PP. More information can also be found on the Loudoun Retail Park website at https://www.loudounretailpark.com/.
This project is expected to be a significant milestone for Galston, offering not only new shopping opportunities but also supporting the town’s economic growth and sustainability efforts.