In an extraordinary turnaround, Argyll and Bute Council has launched a statutory public consultation regarding Helensburgh waterfront. In line with Section 104 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, the Council must consult local communities before disposing of any common good property.
The land in question has been held as a common good asset since its acquisition by the former Burgh of Helensburgh in 1838.
The council’s preferred proposal for the commercial area, submitted by Forrest Developments Ltd, features a single-storey supermarket, three small retail units, a skatepark, and additional car parking.
Consultation closes on Monday 10th August 2026 at 12 noon.
This is your opportunity to provide your views to the Council.
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Here is the link to have your say: https://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/…/helensburgh-waterfront…
Rhu Bay asks: Wouldn’t it make more sense for an independent body to run this consultation? We’d get much more impartial, trustworthy data without any council bias.
Bill Heaney, editor/owner of The Democrat, writes: The Council should create a small park with flowers and seats to allow people to relax and look out at the passing pageant of the Clyde, similar to Rothesay. When Waverley returns (or its successor), and the pier comes back into use, this will attract more and more visitors and bring an economic upturn to the town. Helensburgh is a fantastic asset to Dumbarton, a fresh-air lung for people who live in the now-rundown and neglected one proud county town of the old Shire. Don’t make the same mistake as WDC, which has been to take the finest view from the town with a wonderful outlook to Dumbarton Castle and give planning permission to developers to build two supermarkets on it. This was a fine opportunity missed due to petty squabbling between Labour and the SNP.
Robert McRobie: We need something to attract visitors. Not another supermarket. Parking for buses and other amenities; otherwise, the town will die.