Published 10 December 2024
Ambitious plans to overhaul Dumbarton’s Artizan Centre have taken a major step forward as planning permission was granted for the next phase of the project.
At a recent meeting of West Dunbartonshire Council’s planning committee, the application to undertake shopfront improvements, landscaping and associated infrastructure at the town centre location was approved by members.
The project is part of investment provided through the UK Government for three key projects, also including the redevelopment of Glencairn House and the Connecting Dumbarton project.
During a consultation exercise last year, residents said they were keen to see more open space in the town centre location. Public realm improvements and property improvements as well as preparation of future development plots will now proceed after planning permission was granted.
A planned new public square will include outdoor seating, a small playpark with a mixture of natural, sensory and accessible play features and soft landscaping. A new structure inspired by historic shipbuilding structures is proposed, which will form a centerpiece of the development as a whole.
The public square will include integrated lighting and services and be capable of hosting outdoor market stalls, events or food and beverage vans.
It is hoped that the new public realm will help to bring the space to life, encouraging more people to spend time in the town centre for leisure, increasing the footfall and the amount of time spent in Dumbarton.
The works which are due to start on site in early 2025 are the first phase of delivery of the Artizan Masterplan which provides a long-term vision for how the site can be redeveloped over coming years. The vision comprises residential space, retail spaces, restaurants and cafes, leisure units as well as landscaping, outdoor space and attractive public realm.
The masterplan will be delivered in phases which will reduce the impact on existing businesses and public who use the town centre. During recent demolition work, some pedestrian access paths have had to be diverted but the Council have taken steps to ensure any disruption is kept to a minimum and local traders and residents are kept informed.
Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor David McBride, said: “This is a vital new step in the regeneration of Dumbarton town centre and I am delighted that this important step has been taken which help bring this vision to life.
“I am grateful for the feedback which the public has given and that our teams have focused on the comments made by residents to form these plans.
“I look forward to seeing this develop over the coming months and breathing new life into Dumbarton town centre.”
Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, said: “This is a new chapter for the town and, along with the redevelopment at Glencairn House, those who use work, live and shop in the town centre will soon see a significant improvement to the look and feel of Dumbarton.
“It is an exciting stage in this project and one which should reap huge benefits for the businesses who currently trade in the town and help well attract more firms to operate from here.”
Planning permission was granted subject to conditions.