Work has started on the Marks and Spencer Foodhall site in Largs - but mystery persists over the future of the former M&Co site nearby.

Utility works for the M&S development at the former Pearson's Garage site are now under way, according to local independent councillor Ian Murdoch - following a delay of several months.

M&S is expecting the new Foodhall in town to be open in December 2024.

But a short distance away, there's still no clear picture of the future for the empty building formerly occupied by M&Co - eight months after the store closed. 

Cllr Murdoch said: "It was good to see the utility companies on site and carrying out the necessary work after a 12 to 16 week delay.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: M&S is due to open its doors in Largs next year
"Scottish Gas were on site last week at Townhead Close and I am hoping that this is the first sign of progress and we are now getting some action on the situation."

"We want to see the Foodhall open next year as not only will it improve the economic experience in Largs but it will provide economic spin-offs, will bring employment with 50 jobs, and will be a very good use of the former Pearson Garage site.

"And the sooner there is more progress the better."

However, there has been a lack of progress in relation to the vacant M&Co site which closed in April - with no signs going up on the property advertising it for sale or lease, nor any visible online marketing of the site.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: M&Co has been lying vacant since AprilM&Co has been lying vacant since April (Image: Newsquest)
There have been rumours throughout the summer that the site could be split up.

The Original Factory Shop chain, which has taken over some of the empty M&Co premises around the country, has ruled out coming to Largs, while M&Co administrators Teneo declined to comment.

Cllr Murdoch said: "Nothing has been confirmed for the M&Co site and the only thing I was aware of was that a company took out a survey at the site. That was three weeks ago

"It is concerning and I don't know what is happening. I have asked North Ayrshire Council to look into the situation given it is a large building in the Main Street but haven't heard anything back. 

"There have been lots of rumours but nothing has come to fruition.

"I personally would be in favour of retaining it as a single site as opposed to splitting it up."