A MAJOR redevelopment plan is in place for a run-down part of Moffat – and it could create 50 new jobs.
Owners of the ‘former woolen mill’ site, which includes the derelict Moffat Mercury Inn, have revealed they have plans for ‘major external and internal renovations’.
And they say they are working with the neighboring co-op on initial development proposals, which could include “significantly improving” the exterior appearance of the existing retail and hospitality center; additional parking, a new soft play and a cafe.
In a submission to Dumfries and Galloway Council, Equorium Property and EWM Group also note opportunities in the dilapidated former motel.
Their statement, filed by agents John Handley Associates, confirms an “intention to advance the proposed redevelopment of the site”, adding: “The proposals will represent a significant investment in the Moffat area. This, in turn, will preserve existing local jobs and provide opportunities for additional job creation, with approximately 50 new positions planned.
It was submitted during a consultation on the area’s Replacement Local Development Plan (PLD), with Equorium Property and EWM Group welcoming the “recognition of the site by the local authority as an important development opportunity for use mixed”.
They also claimed the
the existing retail and tourist outlet at Moffat Woolen Mill, and adjacent land, will continue to be allocated as a redevelopment opportunity in the new LDP.
The statement adds: “While there has been little progress to date, it is still a key aspiration of our customers to provide major retail and visitor development to this location that would reflect commercial uses and existing tourist attractions on the site, including the Woolen Mill, restaurants, cooperative grocery store and former hotel.
Other business priorities have so far reportedly delayed the scheme, but they stress that it remains a key priority under a planned UK-wide investment programme.
Speaking of the Mercury Inn in particular, agents say, “There is also potential to redevelop the old motel building which sits along the front of the site and is owned by our customers.
While no exact timeline is given, there is mention of a formal “timely” planning request and it is noted that both companies are keen to work with officials and get things done.
Mercury Campaign Mick Barker, of Moffat, confirmed yesterday that there has already been a meeting between owners and council staff, and another is due to take place shortly.
He said: “We hope the development plans will get all possible support from DG Council and indeed their stated intention is to be as helpful as possible. However, the owners have a lot of work to do, including with council and the community, to see on-the-ground evidence of the owners’ intent.
“What we are looking for is evidence of the specific nature of the plans mentioned, an idea of the proposed timeline for implementation and the nature of the consultation process with the community. We don’t have all that yet.
“This new dialogue and the helpful and direct involvement of council officers is a positive improvement, giving us the best chance of seeing mercury addressed.”
Meanwhile, Annandale North councilor Lynne Davis is cautiously optimistic and said: ‘I would support the local authority working with the site owners on any suitable new proposals they bring forward.
“If they do not materialize it may be prudent for council to explore other avenues such as compulsory purchase and any local redevelopment plans for this preferred site.”
However, David Mundell MP and Oliver Mundell MSP are more wary.
David said: “We’ve been here several times before and nothing has ever happened except the building has deteriorated further. I will only believe there is an intention to do anything with the site when I see action on the ground.
And Oliver added: “Urgent action is needed on this site and I fully understand the local frustration and skepticism on this issue due to decades of EWM inaction.”
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