South Lanarkshire Council is developing plans in partnership with Scoop Asset Management, which could see significant investment made to East Kilbride town centre.

Scoop was appointed asset manager of East Kilbride Shopping Centre in November 2022, following the appointment of Blair Nimmo and Alistair McAlinden of Interpath Advisory, as Joint Administrators of the companies which operate the Centre (Sapphire 15 s.a.r.l. and Sapphire 16 s.a.r.l. – together 'Sapphire’).

Elected members have been informed that the council are working with Scoop. Further engagement will also take place with local parliamentarians, the local community and retailers.

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Council Chief Executive Cleland Sneddon said: "Both ourselves and Scoop recognise the significant challenges East Kilbride town centre, and indeed town centres across the country, are facing.

"However, we believe that there are also exciting opportunities that are available, and we will continue to offer our support to Scoop as we work together to explore the best way forward."

Mark Hewett, Director at Scoop Asset Management, said: "Like many other town centres across the country, East Kilbride has faced a number of challenges as a result of the changing economic and retail landscape. In response we have been working closely with South Lanarkshire Council on positive plans that will pave the way for new investment in the town. We look forward to continuing our discussions with the council, and all those with an interest in the future of the town centre, over the coming months."

Alistair McAlinden, head of Interpath in Scotland and joint administrator of Sapphire said: "This is a really positive step forward both for the local community, and also in terms of the administration process. We look forward to seeing the plans unfold over the weeks and months ahead."

The details of the plans are still being finalised and more information will be revealed in August.