Developer Scoop AM has been awarded planning permission for the re-development of a former Debenhams store at the Thistles Centre in Stirling.

In the first phase of works, Scoop AM will sub-divide all three floors of the premises, which closed in 2021 after Debenhams went into administration, into five units.

The planning permission allows the internal layout of the former department store to be altered to include two new stores, a basement gym, food hall and, on the first floor, a family entertainment centre.

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The proposed food hall will provide seating for approximately 250 people and the family entertainment centre will provide facilities such as soft play, trampolines, mini golf, laser quest and a ball pit.

A report into the application concluded that National Planning Framework 4 and the Stirling Local Development Plan 2018 both supported retail and food and drink, as well as commercial leisure developments that would generate footfall, such as a family entertainment centre and gym.

It also concluded the new use for the site would assist in increasing the vitality and viability of Stirling city centre.