Around 400 residents in Helensburgh came together to oppose plans for a supermarket on the town’s waterfront.
Earlier this year Argyll and Bute Council said that a retail offering was the preferred option for the land that was previously home to the town’s swimming pool.
However, that has been met with anger from locals, with almost 4,000 people signing an online petition against the development.
And last weekend they gathered in gloomy weather on the front to make their voices heard.
Helensburgh Community Council (HCC) labelled the protest a ‘celebration’ of the land being a public space and not used for retail.
A statement from HCC after the event said: “The turnout at this weekend’s rally demonstrated once again how deeply our community cares about the future of this precious space.
“Against the backdrop of the Clyde, local musicians filled the air with song while young people showcased their talents at the skatepark.
“The atmosphere was one of determination and hope, reflecting the spirit of the 4,000 residents who have already signed the petition opposing the supermarket development.
“Helensburgh Community Council extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended. Your presence sends a clear message to Argyll and Bute Council: our community’s voice matters, and we remain steadfast in our opposition to this inappropriate development.”
Argyll and Bute Council agreed a preferred bidder to deliver the final stage of the multi-million pound waterfront development earlier this year.
Forrest Development Ltd was named as the preferred bidder for the site in front of the town’s new leisure centre, with proposals for retail outlets including a supermarket.
When the news was announced Helensburgh Community Council quickly set up a petition opposing the supermarket plans – which now has almost 4,000 signatures.
Polly Jones from HCC explained: “This retail development threatens the livelihoods of local businesses and will ruin the waterfront views we value in our community and that bring many tourists to our town.
“Over the last six years, Helensburgh Community Council has consulted Helensburgh residents about what they would like on the waterfront. The message is clear from the 4,500 responses, and dwarfs the 83 people consulted by Argyll and Bute Council:
“Residents do not want a supermarket on the waterfront.
“Argyll and Bute Council’s process for selecting the winning supermarket bid has been flawed and secretive. It has disregarded the views of the community and is based on weak and out of date evidence.
“Our waterfront could be a vibrant community space to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Instead we are to be given a supermarket that is harmful to Helensburgh’s wonderful view over the Clyde, as well as our fragile local businesses.”
Speaking at a meeting in September, Labour councillor for the town Fiona Howard said: “I want to reiterate that our town centre is important to us all, and we want to get it right. There has been an open process with several offers from retailers, fast food giants, and hotels.
“We have assessed these bids and selected the proposal which is most advantageous.
“We are aware that views both for and against have been expressed, and in the context, it is important to note that the council’s focus is on ensuring it delivers benefits for Helensburgh.
“Community feedback has played an important part in reaching the stage we are at.
“The masterplan reduced the amenity area and the building was pulled away from the street to improve views.”