Tesco and Asda unveil plans to build stores in Larkhall

Oct 29 2009 by Gary Fanning, Hamilton Advertiser

RESIDENTS are being given the chance to have their say on proposals for a new multi-million pound supermarket in Larkhall.

Rivals Asda and Tesco have both unveiled plans to build new stores in the town.

Now Larkhall Community Council have organised an event with the aim of letting the public find out more about the proposals.

Residents are encouraged to go along to the event, which is being held in the dining hall of Glengowan Primary School on Monday from 6.45pm.

Sheena Campbell, secretary of the group, said: “We would urge members of the public to come along and find out exactly what is being proposed and to inform their councillors of their views on both proposals.

“We would stress that it is an open invitation to people in Larkhall to express their opinions, get answers to their questions, and ask elected members to support their decisions.”

Three months ago, ASDA lodged proposals with South Lanarkshire Council to build an £18m supermarket and petrol station in Broomhill Gate, behind Larkhall Leisure Centre, creating up to 350 new jobs.

ASDA chiefs say the new store will bring additional trade and shoppers to the town.

Last month it was announced the ASDA plans were part of an ambitious £55m retail and housing development in Larkhall, creating around 550 new jobs.

Muse Developments have submitted a joint application along with ASDA to build the store and petrol station.

Alongside the foodstore, Muse Development lodged a second application with South Lanarkshire Council’s planning department to build a mixed-used development comprising residential properties and much-needed community facilities.

They want to build a £3.2m restaurant along with a £4m 60-bed care home and a medical centre behind the proposed ASDA.

Along with the retail development, they plan to build 360 three and four-bedroom family homes.

Some of the properties will be built behind ASDA and close to houses in the Raploch area.

The remaining houses – covering some 20 acres – will be built on the former Larkhall Academy site, next to the new £18m school.

To complement the houses, a children’s nursery will be erected across from Larkhall Leisure Centre and next to the new Academy.

Last month, Tesco held an exhibition at Raploch Bowling Club, allowing residents to gain further insight into their proposed development of a 25,000 sq ft store, which would create 150 new jobs opportunities and introduce some environmental features.

Tesco’s new store will have 247 car parking spaces and a range of environmental features, including rain water harvesting and sustainable building materials.

Tesco’s plans include the development of a new bowling clubhouse, car parking and social facilities, plus the relocation of Larkhall Thistle.

Tesco are expected to submit an application to South Lanarkshire Council within the next few weeks.