A PROMINENT retail unit on Largs seafront which has been lying empty for more than four years is set to be given a new lease of life.

The former amusement arcade, sandwiched between Costa, Wetherspoons and the Co-op, has been vacant since May 2018 when The Fabulous Showboat closed down.

The units, which overlook the ferry terminal, has been earmarked for a new Barnardo’s charity shop.

The charity has announced plans to add the site to its 630 shops across the UK, and has lodged a bid for planning permission with North Ayrshire Council.

A lease agreement has already been signed for units one and three on the site, which would see the former arcade revitalised.

Savills, on behalf of the charity, says the move would have benefits for the town centre - and specifically for the seafront.

They said: “The occupation of this unit by Barnardo’s will contribute positively to this part of the promenade that is currently sitting vacant.

“Implementation of the proposals will enable a charity shop to operate from a prime pitch within Largs town centre, which will generate volunteers and footfall.

“There are no proposed physical changes to the existing unit required, and any further proposed alterations will be dealt with through future planning permission.

“Occupation by Bernardo’s will secure a long term tenant that positively contributes towards the vibrancy of Largs promenade and town centre.

“The offering will be a footfall driver, which brings in associated spin off benefits to surrounding operators, and will help diversify the offer and appeal of the promenade.

“The proposals would therefore contribute towards improving the vibrancy, vitality and viability of this section of the prom."

Largs currently has a number of charity shops in the town centre, including the Ayrshire Hospice, British Heart Foundation, British Red Cross and the Salvation Army.

Barnardo’s is a children’s charity that protects and supports the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people.