Residents have their say on old burned out Co-op

The former Co-op building in Kirkintilloch’s Townhead has been empty since the blaze in February 2007, leading to numerous complaints from residents and business owners that it has become an “eyesore”.

Residents have been making suggestions for the site on the Herald’s Facebook page.

Robert McFadden said: “Marks and Spencer would suit this location. If this was to be allowed other retailers would follow suit big time.

“M&S are looking for a further 200 retail outlets in the next few years. East Dunbartonshire Council - I beg you to sort this out if you haven’t done so already.”

Another Herald Facebook follower said: “The revival of Starthkelvin Retal Park is all down to eventually allowing

M&S in.”

Chris Lessani, from CJL Properties who own the building, revealed that they have approached Marks and Spencer, but they turned the offer down.

He said: “The company said that it would not be that far away from the store at Strathkelvin Retail Park.

“We also spoke with Morrisons , who are opening 10 local stores across the UK.

“The main delay is getting permission for the site to make it financially viable.

“There has been talk about sheltered housing, but these are just ideas.

“There is stuff in the pipeline and hopefully we will have more information early next year.”

* Have you got a story, picture or comment? E-mail [email protected]

Alternatively you can call the newsdesk 0141 775 0040, find us on Facebook or visit us on Twitter

Or you can log in below and have you say on the site...