Action needed now on Bishopbriggs town centre

6.27.22pm GMT Thu 23rd Oct 2008

Jo Swinson has criticised East Dunbartonshire Council for its inactivity over the opportunity to redevelop Bishopbriggs town centre.

Jo has revealed that, according to a freedom of information request made to East Dunbartonshire Council, officers can recall just one occasion since January 2006 that they have held a meeting with a retailer relating to Bishopbriggs Town Centre and Strathkelvin Retail Park. During the same period, Jo Swinson has held 11 separate meetings with a range of retailers and developers.

Commenting, Jo said:

"Whilst the M&S store is a welcome addition to the retail park, it cannot be a substitute for action to revitalise Bishopbriggs town centre. We need to ensure that the town centre remains a prime location for new shops and investment.

"East Dunbartonshire Council has responsibility for promoting economic development, but the Council's track record suggests that Councillors are not showing enough leadership on this issue.

"They should be taking a pro-active role to see that quality retailers are attracted to Bishopbriggs. The once-in-a-generation opportunity to give Bishopbriggs town centre a new lease of life must not be squandered."

In February this year, Jo Swinson published the results of a survey of residents on Bishopbriggs town centre. Residents responded that they would like to see quality retail and long-stay car parking in the town centre, as well as the retention of the existing sports hall in the town centre for community use.