Helensburgh needs a pier site designated for recreation, leisure and tourism
The Waterfront is important for its physical focus, its service provision and its contribution to the economic, environmental, social and cultural well-being of the town and surrounding area. It has, in recent years, suffered from under-investment leading to a diminution of its image and a deterrent to economic confidence and progress.
INITIATIVES
- Commission a team of professionals to redesign and landscape the Waterfront Area from the pier head to Kidston Park inclusive.
- If financially viable, build a multi-functional iconic structure at the pierhead as a magnet for visitors. This structure could house a combinations of attractions e.g. a museum which reflects Helensburgh’s heritage, a soft play area, a quality restaurant, a space for electronic art, a dual purpose cinema / theatre, an aquarium and an upgraded tourist information centre.
- Replace the existing swimming pool with a state-of-the-art leisure centre
- Build a “hidden” multi-storey car park to provide additional parking spaces. Replace the existing car park Gabion Structure with a rippled effect concrete structure or something similar. The Gabion structure is unsightly, lodges detritus and provides nesting for rats.
- Create a pedestrianised Town Square in the area of the pier car park between the swimming pool building and Clyde St. Have a focal point in the new square e.g. a covered band stand.
- Extend the promenade as far as the Helensburgh Sailing Club.
- Re-locate the taxi rank outside Woolworth’s on West Clyde St and widen the pavement.
- Install new street furniture, better seating, lighting and paving along the Waterfront to harmonise with the town centre.
- Review safety aspects of promenade. (DES — danger of falling from a height or into deep water)
N.B. In the document, Initiatives that can be achieved fairly quickly are marked “-qw” (quickwin)
