Largs councillors share delight over plans for former pub

Earlier this month, we reported that a soft play centre was set to come in a derelict town centre bar in Largs after being given the green light.

Proposals were lodged by Rebecchi Architectural on behalf of Leanna McCarthy to North Ayrshire Council to turn a vacant storefront at 144 Main Street into a children's soft play.

The plans were approved by the council with no conditions and now councillors have said that the development will 'breathe new life into the old building.'

Councillor Todd Ferguson told the News: “I am absolutely delighted that North Ayrshire Council have approved the planning application for a soft play facility within the old Shieling building. 

"It has been empty for far too long and this proposed soft play facility is a fantastic way to breathe new life into the old building. 

"There aren't many facilities for children and young people locally so this development will be eagerly anticipated by local parents and it will add to the tourism offering for visitors.

"I look forward to seeing the project become fully operational and I wish the owners every success in their new business venture."

READ MORE: Soft play plans for former Largs pub get the go-ahead from council planners

The News reported in September that the former public house at The Sheiling was set to be revived after new tenants were found. 

The pub closed in the mid-2010s and despite efforts to revive it, the site has been lying empty for several years.

The new facility will be the first soft play centre in Largs since the closure some years ago of the facility at Vikingar on the seafront.

The soft play plans were approved by North Ayrshire Council with no conditions (Image: Unsplash)

Councillor Tom Marshall added: "I welcome the decision by North Ayrshire Council planners to grant permission to turn the previous pub premises into a soft play area.

"This will have less impact on the surrounding neighbours compared to the use of the premises as a pub with late opening hours. 

"It is important that vacant premises in the town are utilised where possible to attempt to maintain the vibrancy of the town centre.

"This application concurs with the council's 'town centre first' approach whereby developments are encouraged in the town centre rather than on the periphery.

"The issue of dedicated parking for such a facility does not arise since there are other parking opportunities in the vicinity.

"It will be an attractive location when the Marks & Spencer store opposite opens and will also be another wet weather tourist attraction. Additionally, it will provide much-needed play facilities for local families who have not had use of such in the town since the closure of the ones at Vikingar."