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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Eric McGowan

Former Largs seaside amusements arcade to get new lease of life as shop plans approved

A former seaside amusement arcade in Ayrshire is to be transformed into a charity shop.

Barnardo's have been given the green light to take over 'The Fabulous Showboat' premises on Largs promenade.

The 2,174 sq ft 'L-shaped' unit forms part of a seafront building which also hosts a Costa, Co-op and Wetherspoons and overlooks the Millport ferry terminal.

It has lain empty since the arcade closed in 2018 but will now be given a new lease of life by the UK's largest children's charity.

North Ayrshire Council planners approved a change of use application last week, saying a shop would have a positive impact on pedestrian footfall in the area and help create attractive surroundings.

A supporting statement issued on behalf of Barnardo's said: "The occupation of this unit by Barnardo’s will contribute positively to this part of the promenade, that is currently sitting vacant.

"Implementation of the proposals will enable a charity shop to operate from a prime pitch with Largs town centre which will generate volunteers and footfall.

"Occupation by Barnardo’s will secure a long term tenant that positively contributes towards the vibrancy of Largs Promenade and the town centre."

The promenade building gained planning permission in 1998 for a family leisure centre known as ‘Escape Amusement Complex’ to incorporate amusements, rides, educational facilities, food & non-food retail, licensed dance hall and bar and restaurant.

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