Published: Monday, 30th March, 2009 12:30pm

Recession... What recession in Largs?

Print | Email

The arrival of new cafe and restuarant developments plus various revamps to existing eateries is something to behold in Largs right now when the rest of the UK seems to be struggling.In a matter of a few months, we have the bright and vibrant Nardini's of Largs open and booming, the takeover of Regattas at Largs Yacht Haven by Scott's of Troon who own a number of classy developments in South Ayrshire, and now The Bean and Leaf and the new "Lanes" entertainment complex in Largs seafront (formerly Escape & Fluid) having undergone major renovations.Stephen McDonald's new operation Room and the £2m investment at the Brisbane House Hotel need not go unmentioned either as much loved establishments have had a total re-fit and also look sparkling. The Nardini family also have the Moorings and Green Shutter cafe which used to be seasonal but is now an all year round operation. Even the local Tradewinds cafe have opened a new deli. Can there be another town in Scotland which is having so many new and improved developments?Provost Bobby Rae said at Christmas that he didn't think Largs has looked better and it certainly now looks an international scene when you walk past the palm trees on the seafront and look along Gallowgate Street with the new resplendent Nardini's glistening in shiny white.It is reassuring to see that despite such economic woes, the local area seems to be in fine fettle with major investment ploughed in to updating these important venues for a relaxing, refreshing side to Largs which makes it so popular with visitors.The new Largs Blooming Lovely group, coupled with No Poo on My Shoe and Vik the Viking's litter campaign are commendable local organisations which are all looking to enhance the beauty of the town.Maryln Green of the Largs Initiative seems hopeful that people will come if we have good weather. Indeed during the recent sunny spell, Largs was once again heaving with visitors coming down to the town. With a major sports centre, there is certainly a lot on the scene for the visitor and dare I say it, even the holidaymaker. With many choosing to watch their pennies this year, Largs should be promoting itself as the place to go as many cast aside plans for a foreign holiday because of the credit crunch.