A groundbreaking strategy to revitalise Hamilton’s town centre has been unveiled, with plans to demolish outdated ‘ghost’ shopping centres to make room for a new residential quarter. South Lanarkshire Council has outlined a visionary scheme focused on the regeneration of the area, promising a mix of housing and retail revitalisation.

The ambitious project targets the Regent and New Cross shopping centres for demolition, paving the way for the construction of approximately 450 new homes, including a commitment to social housing. This development aims to decrease the current retail space by up to 70%, shifting the town centre towards a more residential and community-focused environment.

The initiative is not just about building homes; it’s about creating a vibrant neighbourhood with accessible amenities, parking, and commercial spaces on the ground floors to support the remaining retail outlets. This plan aligns with efforts to preserve the town’s retail heritage while adapting to contemporary needs and preferences.

Central to the redevelopment are six key sites, with proposals ranging from the total demolition of existing structures to the repurposing of iconic buildings like the former Bairds and Marks & Spencer for new uses. These might include office spaces or ‘meanwhile uses’ such as event and market spaces, contributing to the area’s dynamism during the transition.

Moreover, the Duke Street car park is earmarked for transformation into student accommodation or a hotel, complemented by new parking facilities and an active travel corridor enhancing connectivity to the station. The New Cross Shopping Centre is envisaged as a residential-led redevelopment, breathing new life into Chapel Street with active ground floor uses.

The former Vogue Bingo site could also see a new lease of life as a multipurpose building, with plans to retain its iconic façade. This comprehensive redevelopment strategy underscores a commitment to sustainable urban living, aiming to rejuvenate Hamilton’s town centre into a thriving, attractive location for residents and visitors alike.

Council Leader Joe Fagan emphasised the proposal’s boldness and potential to drastically alter Hamilton’s urban landscape. He called for public engagement in the upcoming consultations to ensure community input shapes the final vision for the town centre’s transformation.

This proposal represents a significant step towards reimagining Hamilton, aligning with broader trends in urban redevelopment across Scotland and beyond. The council’s Executive Committee will further discuss the masterplan, marking a critical milestone in Hamilton’s journey towards revitalisation.