Supermarket Development

Armadale

SUPERMARKET / RETAIL / HOUSING / RECREATION

DEVELOPMENTS 2009 - 2012

Updated May 2013

Our kite aerial photographs have been included to help those visitors who are unfamiliar with the area.

If you have any details that would interest our readers, please let me know.

This page is only as reliable as the information it receives.

Please note that the details received / collected about proposals for developments in Armadale may have changed since they were recorded here.

This page contains:

2012

Re-brand of Armadale Station Development: Southdale

2011

Armadale Station Development Launch, Asda store and housing developments

2010

Outcome of the meeting of the Planning Committee on Wednesday 26 May 2010 in the Civic Centre in Livingston.

Updates on developments by Scottish Midland Co-operative Society Ltd and Dundas.

News releases about other developments under their 2009 headings.

2009

Details of Armadale Community Council's two Public Meetings about development proposals.

A summary of early details of developments in the order in which they were received (where information was supplied by developers).

Subsequent press releases received by us (at various points on the page).

2012

Southdale Aims to Net New Tennis Academy

Southdale (formerly Armadale Station Development), in Armadale, West Lothian, has put in a bid to net a new Tennis Academy in Scotland, backed by tennis ace Andy Murray.

SDA Ltd, the developers behind the mixed-use scheme at Southdale, have been in talks with Tennis Scotland, West Lothian Council and written to the Scottish Government urging it to be considered as the location for the new facility.

The development was put forward in September 2010 for the delivery of the Judy Murray Tennis Club and the site chosen will be required to accommodate 8 tennis courts indoors and 8 outdoors, with supporting leisure facilities. The potential site at Southdale will be next to the new primary school and it is expected that facilities will be shared between the two.

SDA Ltd will gift the land for the establishment of the Academy and the funding for the delivery of the facilities is anticipated to come through the related funding bodies with potential private sector input.

The site being looked at is required to have good access to main arterial routes and good public transport connections, and this fits Armadale with its railway station.

The reopening of the Bathgate-Airdrie Railway line and the new station at Armadale provides direct trains services to Glasgow and Edinburgh (30 minutes each way). Two large park and rides are being created north and south of the station and the proposed Academy site is less than 2 miles from the M8 motorway and a new link road out to the A801. This will provide capacity not only for the development of the site but also the other Core Development Area (CDA) of Armadale.

October 2012

Asda opened its doors on 24th September 2012:

Asda Armadale Station Superstore
Station Road,
Armadale, EH48 3LP

Supermarket Manager: Kevin McPhee

“Armadale Station Development” becomes “Southdale” and adopts new logo

As you will be aware Armadale Station Development has been progressing at a pace over the last few years. The development, one of Scotland’s largest regeneration projects, is an exciting £200 million plan for the south of Armadale, focused on the railway station.

With new infrastructure providing easy access between the station and Armadale town centre the development will be fully integrated with the existing town, and alongside the initial phase of an ASDA supermarket and 192 homes, incorporates a range of other features, including:

A total of c.1,000 houses and flats, of which up to 250 will be affordable
Additional links to surrounding roads, including the A801

While “Armadale Station Development” has proven a suitable name to date, giving people an idea of where it is located, now that it has become firmly established in the town a new name was felt to be more appropriate. Pupils from Armadale Academy were tasked with delivering both a new name for the site, “Southdale” and new logo, and they took on the challenge with great eagerness.

The new logo reflects both the proud heritage of the town, with the Goth, and also the newly re-established railway and housing. In addition the considerable parks and recreation opportunities at Southdale are reflected through the rushes shown and the green colouring.

Issued on behalf of Sandra Carter from SDA Ltd, developers behind the Southdale (formerly Armadale Station Development) project.
...........................................................................................................................................................
Planning permission granted for second phase at Southdale (formerly Armadale Station Development)

West Lothian Council’s development management committee have agreed to grant planning permission for 384 residential, commercial units and community facilities at Armadale Station. The proposal also includes new roads, landscaping and infrastructure. Planning permission will be subject to a legal agreement and consent will not be released until these matters are concluded.

The proposed development is the second phases as part of the overall development of the area, which allows for up to 1,000 new homes, a supermarket, and a new primary school being built on the site. The first phase included new roads, a supermarket and 192 new houses which are all now under construction and the supermarket is due to open shortly.

The phase two application includes 384 residential units, a nursery, a mixed use commercial building adjacent to the supermarket and some office/commercial units near the train station. Plans also include the diversion of the national cycleway and footpath links to the train station to discourage less appropriate short cuts through existing residential developments.

Councillor Alex Davidson, chair of the development management committee, added: “The proposals comply with the plans contained within the Armadale Core Development Area (CDA). By taking this decision, West Lothian Council is delighted to be able to progress with the continued delivery of the local plan strategy and confirms the council’s commitment to supporting new house building. The developments at Armadale will bring employment and prosperity to the area and today marks another important step in the development of the area.”

"We are delighted to have received planning permission for the next phase of development of one of Scotland's largest regeneration projects. Significant private investment has been made in order to deliver this £200m development, and we welcome the continued support of the Council and the local community in ensuring the progress of the next phase." Sandra Carter from SDA Ltd, developers behind the project

August 2012

Asda Launches Construction of its New Armadale Store

On Thursday 21st June, Asda launched the construction of its store at Armadale Station Development, one of Scotland’s largest regeneration projects.

June 2012

Armadale Station Development Looks to Re-Brand

As developers behind the Armadale Station Development we have been keen to engage and seek the views of the community since the process to establish this development began almost a decade ago. And we have been incredibly grateful for community support and input into this.

Since then Armadale Station Development has become one of Scotland’s largest regeneration project and as we move onto the next phase of development, with a new primary school, commercial and residential development, we are looking for your ideas for a new name for the development.

As you will be aware this is an exciting £200m regeneration project, which is anticipated to see 4,500 permanent jobs created when complete and will deliver 1,000 houses, a hotel, care home, leisure facilities, industrial and office space.

“Armadale Station Development” as a name, we believe, has now served its purpose in identifying the location of the development, which extends well beyond the railway station. As we start to look beyond the initial phase to the development of 200 + acres south and east of the Station are, we have discovered in speaking with both Armadale residents and other parties that the current name of “Armadale Station” is conveying an idea of a relatively small development that is centred about and around the Station and it is not sending the right message in terms of the size and extent of the land to be developed and the diverse uses that will be incorporated in the final scheme.

With the arrival of ASDA, Taylor Wimpey and Bellway, we felt this the right time to look at a potential new name and have some of the children in S2 in the Academy working on a proposed logo for the development.

If you have any ideas or thoughts on a new name please email : alex.orr@orbit-comms.co.uk and please feel free to pass this onto anyone you think would be interested.

Further information on the development can be found at: www.armadalestation.co.uk and we would welcome your views ideally by mid-May.

Once again we would like to thank the community for their continuing support of the development.

April 2012

2011

Cabinet Secretary Launches £200m Armadale Station Development

Alex Neil MSP, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment officially launched one of Scotland’s largest regeneration projects at Armadale today (14 November 2011).

It is anticipated that the £200m regeneration project will lead to the creation of 4,500 permanent jobs and will deliver 1,000 houses, a hotel, care home, leisure facilities, industrial and office space.

The Cabinet Secretary was joined on-site by the leader of West Lothian Council, Cllr Peter Johnston; Sandra Carter, director of site developers SDA Ltd, and the depute head boy, Ewan Prentice, and depute head girl, Rachel Valentine, of Armadale Academy. They buried a time capsule put together by the school for the occasion. Representatives from Taylor Wimpey, Bellway Homes and ASDA were also present.

Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil said,
“I am delighted to launch this project, which is a prime example of how co-operation between the public and private sector can benefit the local community and stimulate the wider economy. Continued investment in infrastructure is vital if we are to recover from the current financial difficulties and developments such as this one at Armadale are playing a huge part in that.”

Leader of West Lothian Council, Cllr Peter Johnston, said,
“It was great to have the Cabinet Secretary on-site today to see what is being delivered in Armadale. The vision the developers had of the site, with the co-operation of West Lothian Council, is being realized and we look forward to continue working on ensuring that the potential of this development is fully realized. It is a great success story, not just for Armadale, but for Scotland.”

Housing Developments

Hanlin Park (Bellway)

Ferrier Path (Taylor Wimpey)

5th October 2011

Two Housing Sites in Armadale Sold As Development Begins

SDA Ltd, the developers behind one of the largest regeneration projects in Scotland, Armadale Station Development in West Lothian, is delighted to confirm the completion of the sale to Taylor Wimpey and Bellway of two housing sites.

The sale will deliver 180 houses in total with the associated payment of developer contributions in advance of the due date to West Lothian Council for primary school education, which could be used to deliver a proposed new primary school in Armadale. The full payment by SDA Ltd reflects the commitment of the company to the delivery of this school.

Work also commences on the ASDA site this week including the roads to a potential new primary school site. It is anticipated that the ASDA store of 40,000 sq. ft (gross) will create 150 full and part-time jobs.

The delivery of a new primary school in Armadale is one of seven projects seeking support from West Lothian Council’s West Lothian Infrastructure Fund. And house-building has already begun, as have enabling works for the supermarket.

The early construction of a new primary school in Armadale will allow for the further housing development of 800 plus homes and the eventual delivery of 4,500 jobs.

The sale of the two housing sites marks the culmination of 8 years of hard work by the development team, with significant assistance and support from West Lothian Council, Armadale Community Council and the local community, to regenerate the area. The justification for the railway station itself was the delivery of this masterplan as envisaged through the Council’s development plan.

The success of this project against the backdrop of a severe economic recession clearly demonstrates that Armadale is now considered by many as an ideal location to live and raise a family, start a business and or retire. Its excellent transport routes, superb public amenities and strong sense of community all serve to promote the area.

As the initial phase of the development commences, the developers are keen to keep up the momentum on delivering the overall masterplan which includes 1,000 houses, a hotel, a care home, leisure facilities, industrial and office space.

EWP Investments Ltd and ASDA Stores Ltd held a public consultation event in the museum area of Armadale Library on Friday 15th July 2011. pdf

Asda Aims:

To make sustainability affordable for all
To run the Armadale store using 48% less carbon than a 2005 model
To achieve a BREEAM 'very good' rating, a recognised benchmark in 'green' buildings

Asda Facts:

A new store with a gross floor area of c40,000sq ft
A wide range of products, food and non-food
Up to 150 full- and part-time jobs for the area
A petrol filling station
260 car parking spaces
Cycle parking spaces
Additional recycling facilities

The event appeared to be well attended as there is considerable interest in Asda's supermarket*, as there was with the doomed Sainsbury supermarket proposal.

*NB Asda has already received planning consent and is merely seeking to alter the existing consent to embrace design changes such as the inclusion of a mezzanine floor.

Lisa Rooke, Property Communications Manager, said that it is proposed to create more visual interest and to help the new store fit into its surroundings by changing the appearance of the store's roof, as well as the exterior of the building, while maintaining key elements of the approved design. Larch timber is one of the materials being suggested, and extended overhangs are being considered to provide shelter over pedestrian routes.

ARMADALE STATION DEVELOPMENT MOVES INTO DEVELOPMENT STAGE

6 June 2011 Announcement

SDA Ltd have lodged a planning application kick-starting the second phase of development at the site.

The new application comprises:

394 homes
Neighbourhood shops next to the Station
A community building next to the Station which has been designed to incorporate an anchor use such as a nursery or a doctors' surgery, together with smaller units to accommodate, for example, a dental surgery, beautician and/or chiropodist clinics.
An office building next to the new roundabout on Station Road which has been designed to accommodate either several independent small businesses or a high profile single occupier
Two mixed use buildings incorporating flats and ground floor commercial units set around the supermarket and Civic Square.

19th May 2011 Announcement

The developers behind one of the largest regeneration projects in Scotland, Armadale Station Development, have announced that ASDA, Bellway Homes and Taylor Wimpey have signed up to construct a supermarket and 180 houses.

This achievement marks the culmination of 8 years of hard work by the development team, with significant assistance and support from West Lothian Council, Armadale Community Council and the local community, to regenerate the area.

The success of this project against the backdrop of a severe economic recession, clearly demonstrates that Armadale is now considered by many as an ideal location to live and raise a family, start a business and or retire. Its excellent transport routes, superb public amenities and strong sense of community all serve to promote the area.

As this initial phase of the development commences, the developers are keen to keep up the momentum on delivering the overall masterplan which includes 1,000 houses, a hotel, a care home, leisure facilities, industrial and offices.

It is anticipated that the ASDA store of 40,000 sq. ft (gross) will create 150 full and part-time jobs and once delivered this project will generate around 4,500 permanent jobs for the area.

It is expected that house building will commence this summer, with enabling works for the supermarket site beginning in early August.

Armadale Station Development is one of the sponsors behind the Armadale Gala Day this year, and members of the public will have the opportunity to view the supermarket and housing proposals at the Armadale Street Fayre on 17th June and at the Gala Day itself on 18th June, with the development team and representatives from the housebuilders on hand to answer any questions.

Elizabeth Hands, Chair of Armadale Community Council said,
“The development, coming so soon after the opening of railway station, marks a new era in the history of the town. The support given to the Station Development by the local community is now bearing fruit with the announcement by ASDA and the work to be started by Taylor Wimpey and Bellway on the first residential projects. The Community Council looks forward to seeing the benefits to the people of Armadale on the completion of these projects.”

Fraser Conn, Sales and Marketing Director at Bellway Homes said,
“Development at this attractive location will assist in ensuring that the vision of Armadale as a thriving growing community in the heart of Central Scotland is realised. The delivery of housing, in addition to the other facilities at this development, will regenerate not just the area around the station, but will maximize the regeneration of the town as a whole. We have been determined to include a mix of homes, both in style and pricing, that not only ensure an extensive range of buyers are being catered to, but that will help promote family living in this area of town.”

Karen Armstrong, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey East Scotland added,
“This is a great opportunity and indicates our confidence as a company in future development in Armadale. The station has acted as a tremendous catalyst for regeneration and we look forward to being able to update people further at the Gala Day.”

2010

The supermarket was given planning consent in November 2010.

An outline planning application for Armadale Station Community Development Masterplan was approved in May 2010.

Following the meeting of the Planning Committee on Wednesday 26 May 2010 in the Civic Centre in Livingston:

Report (3 June 2010) in the West Lothian Courier about the outcome of the planners' meeting

Report (2 June 2010) in West Lothian's Herald and Post about the outcome of the planners' meeting, with comments from Monarchs' co-promoter John Campbell, Elizabeth hands, Chair of Armadale Community Council, Isabel Hutton, Armadale Councillor, Dougal Hartley, Sainsbury's Development Surveyor and others.

Statement (26 May 2010) by SDA on the Armadale Station website re their planning proposals

Statement (19 July 2010) by Sainsbury's in The Scotsman where they state that they will not be appealing the decision.

Scottish Midland Co-operative Society Ltd (22 - 32 West Main Street and Volunteer Park, North Street, Armadale)

Outline Planning Permission 0555/P/09 for redevelopment of existing class 1 retail store (c300sqm gross) to form smaller store; erection of new class 1 retail store; alterations to existing used car display area.

If you missed the February 2010 Exhibition at Colinshiel Court, staged on behalf of the

Scottish Midland Co-operative Society Ltd,

you may be interested to see images of the Exhibition displays HERE

View from Watson Park looking south over Watson Bowling Club towards Armadale Swimming Pool and neighbouring Volunteer Park, and Armadale town centre beyond.

(KAP photo by Rosie and John)

Dundas Estates & Development Company Ltd (Land next to Drummond Distribution)

Outline Planning Application 0534/P/09 for a Proposed Foodstore and Petrol Filling Station, Colinshiel Farm, Bathgate Road, Armadale

Damon Burns explaining the Dundas Estates & Development Company's supermarket plans at the Public Exhibition of the proposals at Armadale Library, which took place on Thursday 18 February 2010 from 6pm - 7.45pm.

If you were unable to attend, there will be leaflets and a questionnaire at The Wool Shop, Rings and Things and McColl's.

Power Point Presentation (zipped)

If you wish, you can complete an online survey HERE

Need more information? Want to express a view?

Write to: Damon Burns, Drummond Distribution, 1 Bathgate Road, Armadale, West Lothian, EH48 2PE,

or telephone 01501 730221,

or email enquiries@drummond-distribution.co.uk

2009

Above: Elizabeth Hands, Chair of Armadale Community Council, and Scott Mackay, Secretary.

Public Meeting TWO called by Armadale Community Council re Development Proposals

Armadale Community Council organised Public Meeting TWO about developments in
Armadale. The meeting took place at Armadale Academy on 7 October 2009 at 7pm. Plans and representatives of all the developers were present, apart from the representative for Dundas Estates & Development Company Ltd.
The meeting was an excellent opportunity to see the main hall of the new Armadale Academy, but it was disappointing that attendance was 50% less than at the first Public Meeting in March 2009.
If you were unable to attend the Public Meeting and you would like to register your concerns / preferences about any of the sites (anonymously if you wish), I will pass them on to the Chair of Armadale Community Council. Deadline for feedback: Thursday 22 October 2009 Contact Rosie

Above: Some of the developer representatives who attended the meeting

Glimpse of the Public Exhibition of Armadale Shopping Proposals,

held on Friday 2 October 2009, and on Saturday morning, 3 October 2009, at Colinshiel Court, Armadale

Proposals (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (Large pdf files, so slow to load)

Below is my summary of proposals contained in the pdf files. They may have changed since the summary was created.

Application No	Applicant	Location Red Italics = easy identifier for sites on Armadale Community Council Response Form	Size of Development	Brief Details
0147/P/09 Outline Planning Permission	Taylor Wimpey and Dawn Group Ltd Agent: Greystones Ltd	Bathgate Road, Armadale (Fields next to Heatherfield Home)	34ha Superstore: 6100 sqm (gross)	60+ housing units for rent 200 residential units (private) Superstore + café, petrol station etc Initial stage of distributor link road from Heatherfield Roundabout giving access to Colinshiel Masterplan Area
1086/P/08 Outline Planning Permission	Agent: Greystones Ltd	Bathgate Road, Armadale	8.1ha	Mixed use residential and retail development
0224/FUL/09	Sainsbury's Supermarkets Agent: Turley Associates	Bathgate Road, Armadale (Armadale Dog Track)	Supermarket: 6170 sqm (gross)	Supermarket with petrol station etc
0534/P/09 Outline Planning Permission	Dundas Estates & Development Company Ltd	Colinshiel Farm, Bathgate Road, Armadale (next to Drummond's Garage)	Supermarket: 6038 sqm (65,000 sq ft) (gross floor area)	Supermarket + 419 car parking spaces with petrol filling station etc
0403/P/09 Outline Planning Permission	West Lothian Council - Property Services	Watson Park, North Street, Armadale (Watson Public Park)	2500 sqm (gross) maximum	Class 1 retail development Relocation of existing park facilities (2 grass pitches, play area, multi-use games area and BMX track)
0555/P/09 Outline Planning Permission	Scottish Midland Co-operative Society Ltd Agent: Pritchett Planning Consultancy	22 - 32 West Main Street and Volunteer Park, North Street, Armadale (Volunteer Football Park)	New retail store: 4000 sqm (gross)	Redevelopment of existing class 1 retail store (c300sqm gross) to form smaller store Erection of new class 1 retail store Alterations to existing used car display area
1044/P/08 Outline Planning Permission	EMA Architecture & Design Ltd Agent: PPCA Ltd			Mixed use development incl residential, commercial, retail, school + leisure
0439/FUL/09	EWP Investments Ltd Agent: PPCA Ltd	Armadale Station, Armadale (New Railway Station Area)	Supermarket: 3716 sqm (gross)	Supermarket Park + Ride Public Transport Interchange etc
0893/P/08 Outline Planning Permission	Achadonn Properties Ltd Agent: Ryden	Lower Bathville, Armadale (Lower Bathville)	26.6ha Retail floor space: 4650 sqm (gross)	Residential and retail development

Armadale viewed from the north-west

Public Meeting ONE called by Armadale Community Council re Development Proposals

There was a large attendance (nearly 200) at the public meeting, called by Armadale Community Council, in Armadale Academy's assembly hall on the evening of Thursday 5 March 2009. Proposals for a supermarket and other developments were presented after the welcome by Elizabeth Hands, Chair of Armadale Community Council.

The agenda consisted of a series of addresses by West Lothian Council representatives and potential developers of sites in the Armadale area. Each speaker was allowed ten minutes to present his group's plans.

a Retail Impact Study (West Lothian Council)
Achadonn (Bathville area)
EMA Architects (The area surrounding Armadale Station)
Greystones (Area next to Heatherfield Home)
Sainsbury's (Dog Track / Speedway Stadium)
West Lothian Council (Watson Park)
From a Planning Perspective (West Lothian Council)

Postponed to a future occasion:
Dundas Estates (Land next to Drummond)

Questions followed, which raised a number of private as well as public concerns.

SAINSBURY'S (Dog Track / Speedway Stadium)
It is understood that Sainsbury's wants to build a 40,000 sq foot food store and a petrol forecourt on the speedway stadium site, thereby creating about 350 full- and part-time jobs. Sainsbury's agreement to purchase the stadium site is dependent on their success in obtaining planning permission.

Bringing Sainsbury's to Armadale: Development Plans

CONTACT
For further information about Sainsbury's plans, please contact the community information line on 0131 220 0171 or email Claire McConnell at claire.mcconnell@invictapa.co.uk

Armadale Stadium, North and East Fells estates and Hardhill Millennium Wood to rear
(KAP photograph by Rosie and John, February 2008)

Sainsbury's Offer: A New Stadium and Youth Academy for the Monarchs. See Here.

May 2010

Statement from Edinburgh Scotwaste Monarchs

SAINSBURY’S PLAN ARMADALE LAUNCH

Sainsbury’s have today announced plans for a £23m development in Armadale which would involve them taking over the Scotwaste Arena.

While this might seem like bad news for Monarchs, there are several reasons for taking a different view.

Few people believed that the stadium had a permanent future and at their last meeting, the club’s directors were considering assuming that 2009 would be the final year at the venue. It now seems certain that we will be there for a further two seasons.

What is more, all parties involved see relocation of the Monarchs as an important part of the arrangement. Monarchs’ officials have met with Mark Cummings and Claire McConnell of Invicta, representing Sainsbury’s, and came away from that meeting in a positive frame of mind.

Monarchs’ chairman Alex Harkness said “This was a very good meeting, we found Mark and Claire excellent to speak with. Without going in to too much detail we have been assured that we will have professional help in relocating the club. This was something we always knew we would have to do at some stage.

“It is in everyone’s interests that this happens, and that of course includes West Lothian Council who see us as important to their area. They know we are the most successful sports club in West Lothian.”

Co-promoter John Campbell has been involved in several meetings with West Lothian councillors including Stewart Borrowman and other members of the community council. He says “It has come across loud and clear how well disposed they are towards speedway – they are 100% positive and want us to stay in West Lothian.”

The club are also keen to comment on stadium owner Kenny Waugh’s time at Armadale. Monarchs’ director Ronnie Anderson said “Kenny Waugh has kept us in the picture all the time, and he has been a tremendous man for Speedway throughout his time at Armadale. He has always been true to his word and easy to deal with.”

25 February 2009

Above: Two members of the Sainsbury's team that were present at the public exhibition in Armadale Community Centre on Friday 6 March. A further exhibition was held in the Centre on Saturday 7 March 2009, from 10am - 4pm.

Above: The rest of the team representing Sainsbury's, ready to answer questions at the start of their public exhibitions in Armadale Community Centre on Friday 6 March 2009

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WEST LOTHIAN COUNCIL (Watson Park)

The plans for the council-owned land envisage a supermarket being built on land behind McNeil Crescent (currently a football pitch) or on the land currently occupied by Watson Bowling Club's green and pavilion, thereby necessitating the relocation of bowling club facilities as well as the creation of new playing pitches. A new primary school and a housing development are also seen as possibilities for this northern area of Armadale.

Watson Park Aerial

Executive Report

(approved by the Council Executive on 10th February 2009)

Executive Report Plan

CONTACT

scott.hughes@westlothian.gov.uk

Watson Park (top centre)

(KAP photograph by Rosie and John 2008)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

EMA Architects - Armadale Station Community Development

Spokesman: Ewan McIntyre

The proposal would involve expansion on land to the south of the town where the new railway station will be built. The plans, which incorporate the redevelopment of former opencast land, envisage a development of 1,000 houses as well as a supermarket, neighbourhood centre and primary school.

Above: Armadale Station Community Development Exhibition
at Watson Park during Armadale Children's Gala Day, Saturday 20 June 2009

NEWS RELEASE, 17^th November 2010

Planning application lodged for new Armadale housing

The developers behind Armadale Station Community Development, SDA Ltd, have lodged a planning application for the first phase of housing at their mixed-use development, focused on the soon to be opened railway station at Armadale in West Lothian.

Located on land to the west of Station Road and to the north of the Airdrie-Bathgate Railway line, and measuring c. 8.5 hectares (21 acres), the initial phase of housing will amount to 192 homes and in addition to this a 60-bed care home is also proposed. Not only will construction jobs be created, but the care home is expected to create 60 part-time and full-time jobs.

The lodging of the application follows an extensive period of pre-application consultation, including an exhibition of proposals for the site at Armadale Community Centre in April, and opportunities to view the exhibition at the Centre after this and online, as well as at Armadale Children's Gala Day in June.

These developments mark the latest stage in the £200 million regeneration plan by SDA Ltd to bring more than 4,500 permanent jobs to the area, which is situated within the Armadale Core Development Area (CDA). Last September saw the lodging of the application for a new two stream primary school, catering to 222 pupils and 60 nursery places, easing pressure on other primary schools in Armadale.

In May 2010 planning approval was received for a 40,000 sq ft supermarket with car parking for 600 cars, including a park and ride.

The mixed-use Armadale Station Community Development, which occupies c. 120 hectares, also includes a multiplex cinema, restaurants, retail, small business and industrial units, hotel, public parks and up to 1000 new homes – including up to 25% affordable housing.

The overall development will regenerate not just the area around the station, but will maximise the regeneration of the town as a whole, with money from development staying in Armadale.

NEWS RELEASE, 29th April 2010

Thumbs up for Housing and Care Home Proposals for Armadale

Those attending an exhibition at Armadale Community Centre on Wednesday 28th April on the latest phase of the mixed-use development focused on Armadale Station have given overwhelming support to the proposed first phase of residential housing and a care home, as well as the development in general.

Those wanting to see information on the proposed development and feedback can still do so as some key elements from it will be on display at the Community Centre until 14th May.

Information concerning the development can also be accessed online at www.armadalestation.co.uk, with individuals able to comment on the proposals online from Wednesday 28th April. Comments in writing can be made to: Ewan McIntyre, EMA Architecture + Design Ltd, The Stables, 38 Baileyfield Road, Edinburgh EH15 1NA, email: comment@armadalestation.co.uk

The deadline to receive comments is Friday 28th May.

Dave McDougall, Chief Executive of the West Lothian Chamber of Commerce said: “Developments like this offer the prospect of sustainable economic development and regeneration in West Lothian and provide particularly good opportunities for the local business community.”

Drummond Black, Regional Vice Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses said: “We are extremely excited about the prospect this development delivers for start-up businesses, with a range of units providing them with the flexibility to grow. By keeping money in the local economy this development will benefit all of Armadale and is a once in a generation opportunity for the town.”

___________

NEWS RELEASE, 22 April 2010

Housing and Care Home Proposals for Armadale to Go On Show

The developers behind Armadale Station Community Development, SDA Ltd, have released details of the latest phase of their development, focused on the proposed railway station at Armadale.

New proposals are for 170 homes, a 60 bed care home and associated roads, footpaths, landscaping, play area and SUDS (sustainable urban drainage systems). Located on land to the west of Station Road and to the north of the Airdrie-Bathgate Railway line, and measuring c. 8.5 hectares (21 acres), this development is expected to create c. 60 permanent and part-time jobs at the care home, not including jobs created during construction.

Work will start on site this year should planning permission be granted within 4 months of submission.

A proposal of application notice has been lodged with West Lothian Council which initiates a 12-week process of pre-application consultation with the local community, prior to lodging a formal application for planning permission with the Council, expected to be at the beginning of July.

An exhibition of proposals for the site will be open to the public between 12pm and 8pm on Wednesday 28^th April at Armadale Community Centre, 7 North Street. Representatives from Armadale Station Community Development will be on hand to answer questions and to receive feedback, both orally and through using the forms provided.

In June 2009 a planning application was lodged for a 40,000 sq ft supermarket with car parking for 600 cars, including a park and ride.

The receipt from the sale of the supermarket will ensure the new primary school and essential infrastructure and amenities necessary to ensure that the vision of Armadale as a thriving growing community in the heart of the central belt of Scotland is delivered. And this development will regenerate not just the area around the station, but will maximise the regeneration of the town as a whole, with money from development staying in Armadale.

Information concerning the development can also be accessed online at www.armadalestation.co.uk, with individuals able to comment on the proposals online from Wednesday 28^th April. Comments in writing can be made to: Ewan McIntyre, EMA Architecture + Design Ltd, The Stables, 38 Baileyfield Road, Edinburgh EH15 1NA, email: comment@armadalestation.co.uk

The deadline to receive comments is Friday 28^th May.

Sandra Carter, of SDA Ltd, said: “It is fantastic to be able to bring forward these proposals for housing, a care home and associated infrastructure. Our aim is to deliver a fully integrated Armadale and the school, supermarket, care home and housing assist in this process. The vision to create a school, parks, businesses and new homes that will stimulate economic growth and benefit this area of West Lothian is well on the way to being realised.

“We’re really looking forward to discussing our proposals for the site in greater detail with members of the local community and I would strongly encourage interested members to come along to the community centre to ask questions and let us know what they think.”

___________

NEWS RELEASE, 1 October 2009

Plans for new Primary School at Armadale Station lodged with West Lothian Council

A planning application has been lodged with West Lothian Council for a new two-stream Primary School at Armadale Station Community Development (image attached).

Focused on the proposed railway station at Armadale, the two stream primary school marks another phase in the £200 million regeneration plan by developers, SDA Ltd, to bring more than 4,500 permanent jobs to the area, which is situated within the Armadale Core Development Area (CDA). The school application follows on from the lodging of a planning application for a 40,000 sq ft supermarket with car parking for 600 cars including a park and ride, in June.

Phase 1 of the 36,630 sq ft school and nursery will cater to 222 pupils and have 60 nursery places, with an estimated construction cost of £6 million. Its development will ease pressure on other primary schools in Armadale.

In addition to 8 classrooms will be a dining hall, gym hall and playing fields and additional facilities, occupying 1.9 hectares in total. The school will be a focus for the local community who will have access to a community office, kitchen and support spaces. The construction of the two stream school will be phased and it is anticipated that 45 permanent jobs will be created.

In addition to the supermarket and school, the mixed-use Armadale Station Community Development, which occupies c. 120 hectares, also includes a multiplex cinema, restaurants, retail, small business and industrial units, hotel, nursing home, public parks and up to 1000 new homes – including up to 25% affordable housing.

The receipt from the sale of the supermarket will ensure the new primary school and essential infrastructure and amenities necessary to ensure that the vision of Armadale as a thriving growing community in the heart of the central belt of Scotland is delivered.

With planning approval it is anticipated that a new supermarket at Armadale Station will be open at the same time as the opening of the new railway station in December 2010, with the school opening in 2011 should a planning consent be forthcoming at the turn of 2009/10.

Images of the school and the development in general will be available for viewing from Thursday 8th October at Armadale Library, West Main Street, Armadale.

Sandra Carter, of SDA Ltd, said: “It is fantastic to see the application for the school being lodged with West Lothian Council, who we have worked closely with on this. Our proposal aims to deliver a fully integrated Armadale and the school, supermarket and other community facilities assist in this process. Our vision to create a school, parks, businesses and new homes that will stimulate economic growth and benefit this area of West Lothian is well on the way to being realised.”
___________

NEWS RELEASE, 18 September 2009

Sights set on bringing unique tennis academy to Armadale

The developers behind Armadale Station Community Development have served up an ace by setting their sights on bringing the first Judy Murray Tennis Club to their proposed £200m mixed-use development at Armadale.

The delivery of the first Judy Murray Tennis Club will be unique to Scotland and will be adopting a European-style community model with a view to identifying, developing and nurturing young talented Scottish players. It is a Club that will deliver a modern community tennis club, incorporating a junior academy, positioned at the heart of a comprehensive tennis development programme.

A submission has been made by SDA Ltd, the developers behind the proposed development focused around Armadale Station, to commercial property consultancy Drivers Jonas LLP. The consultancy is currently working in association with the Lawn Tennis Association and Trio Plus (sports consultancy) on developing this tennis hub in Central Scotland.

The requirements they are looking for in terms of a site of between 5 to 8 acres, with good access to main arterial routes and good public transport connections, fits Armadale Station Community Development with its new railway station, ideally.

Sandra Carter of SDA Ltd said: “The first Judy Morris Tennis Club serves up an exciting opportunity for both Armadale and West Lothian. Armadale, with the new station and the associated package of developments we propose is ideally suited as a location for this unique facility, assisting in regenerating the area and delivering the Scottish tennis stars of the future to follow in the footsteps of Andy Murray.”

___________

NEWS RELEASE, 23 June 2009

Armadale Station Community Development Exhibition moves to Library (24 June onwards)

Following the huge interest shown in the Armadale Station Community Development over the Armadale Gala Day celebrations (19^th and 20^th June), an exhibition highlighting the development, accompanied by further information, has now been set up at Armadale Library on West Main Street.

The team behind the £200m development focused around the new railway station spoke to hundreds of local residents attending the Gala Day about their proposals to extend the town. The vision which consists of up to 1,000 homes, including affordable housing, a new primary school, small shops and offices, multiplex cinema, supermarket, business park and industrial estate, as well as extensive public parks, was warmly welcomed.

In its entirety, the development has the potential to bring 4,500 jobs to the area.

By moving the exhibition to the library, the developers hope to provide more people with the opportunity to view the plans and put forward their views.

Sandra Carter, representing Armadale Station Community Development said: “We were enormously encouraged by people’s reaction to our proposals and their feedback was extremely useful. It was clear to us that the local community wants to help shape the future of the town and so by moving the exhibition to the library we hope that more people will feel part of what we are trying to do and we encourage people to give us their comments.”

A detailed planning application for the first phase of the development was lodged with West Lothian Council earlier this month. This phase includes plans for a 40,000 sq ft supermarket with car parking for 600 cars (400 at the supermarket and 200 for the park ‘n’ ride). It amounts to a £25 million investment in Armadale and will deliver 300 jobs. If the plans are approved, the proposed supermarket could be open in December 2010, to coincide with the opening of the railway station.

___________

NEWS RELEASE, 10 June 2009

Plans for new Supermarket, Park & Ride and Major Infrastructure at Armadale Station lodged with West Lothian Council

A planning application has been lodged with West Lothian Council for a new supermarket at Armadale Station. This marks the first phase of a £200 million regeneration plan by developers, SDA Ltd, to bring more than 4,500 permanent jobs to the area, which is situated within the Armadale Core Development Area (CDA).

The 40,000 sq ft supermarket with car parking for 600 cars (400 at the supermarket and 200 for the park ‘n’ ride) amounts £25 million of investment in Armadale and will deliver 300 jobs. This forms one part of a new community development in South Armadale that will also include a new primary school, multiplex cinema, restaurants, retail, small business and industrial units, public parks and up to 1000 new homes – including up to 25% affordable housing.

Built adjacent to the new railway station and on land specifically designated for retail development, the proposed supermarket will capitalise on the road infrastructure currently under construction to facilitate access to the new station, the proposed park, park and ride scheme and bus-rail interchange. It is proposed that this will be open by December 2010.

The Armadale Station development is committed to delivering the essential infrastructure and amenities necessary to ensure that the vision of Armadale as a thriving growing community in the heart of the central belt of Scotland is delivered. Local residents will be able to view the complete plans and offer their input at the upcoming Gala Day celebrations. An exhibition will take place between 6pm and 9pm on Friday 19th June in North Street at the street fair and also on Saturday 20th June at Watson Park.

Sandra Carter, of SDA, said: “Having worked with the development team on this project for several years it is great to finally see things happening both on site and in the form of planning applications. Our vision is to create a sustainable community of shops, a school, parks, businesses and new homes that will stimulate economic growth and benefit this area of West Lothian.

“We believe that the concentration of community, business, employment and retail activity in the new Armadale Station Local Centre will reinforce the long term viability of both the new local centre and existing town centre and will maximise the potential for sustainable economic growth and regeneration for the town as a whole.”

“We believe our vision meets the objectives established by the community planners and the politicians set out in the Local Plan for the expansion of the town and we hope people will come along to our Gala Day exhibition, view the plans and help us bring this part of South Armadale to life.”

See Armadale Station for information, maps and CONTACT

Mayfield Estate and new housing south of which will be Armadale railway station, due 2010 (^SSW)
(KAP photograph by Rosie and John, 2008)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Achadonn (Bathville area)

Spokesman: Duncan McEwan

The 65-acre development in Lower Bathville, accessed from Lower Bathville Road, is planned as a mixed-use site, which would include housing and park-land, a supermarket and a neighbourhood centre where a health centre with crèche and nursery, and possibly a new primary school, would be situated.

Northern part of the site, west of the brickworks

Site situated to the right of the brickworks (Larger version)

(Infra-red KAP Photograph by Rosie and John, 2008)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Greystones (Area next to Heatherfield Home)

Spokesman: Stephen Dawes

Greystones propose to work alongside the Dawn Group and Wimpey Homes to construct 200 houses (as well as 64 affordable homes built by the Dawn Group with Weslo Housing Authority to be offered for subsidised rent and subsidised ownership) as well as a 40,000 sq ft supermarket. They believe their £65,000,000 investment would produce 300 full- and part-time jobs with 100 on-site construction jobs. At present, the land that the group propose to build on is not allocated on the Local Plan.

The view over Armadale Stadium towards Bathgate with Heatherfield Home on the opposite side of the road
(KAP photograph by Rosie and John, February 2008)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Dundas Estates & Development Company Ltd (Land next to Drummond Distribution)

Outline Planning Application 0534/P/09 for a Proposed Foodstore and Petrol Filling Station, Colinshiel Farm, Bathgate Road, Armadale

Public Exhibition of the proposals at Armadale Library on Thursday 18 February 2010 from 6pm - 7.45pm

If you were unable to attend, there will be leaflets and a questionnaire at The Wool Shop, Rings and Things and McColl's

Need more information? Want to express a view?

Write to: Damon Burns, Drummond Distribution, 1 Bathgate Road, Armadale, West Lothian, EH48 2PE,

or telephone 01501 730221,

or email enquiries@drummond-distribution.co.uk

Posted February 2010

2013

6 May

Work begins on Arnold Clark site in Armadale

Work has begun this week at Southdale (formerly Armadale Station Development), in Armadale, West Lothian to prepare a vacant 5 acre site on Station Road for the arrival of Arnold Clark.

Europe's largest independently-owned, family-run car company will relocate from the Main Street to a larger 20,000 sq ft site at Southdale, allowing it to expand its operations. This will include a new showroom; hardstanding display area for more 400 cars; a service department; car valet building with car wash facility and parking spaces.

The work on-site will largely involve remediation work, preparing the site for development, with Arnold Clark expected to begin work on-site in June.

Southdale is one of Scotland’s largest regeneration projects with an estimated value of £200m and includes residential and commercial uses, as well as a proposed new primary school. Once complete it is estimate that it will employ 4,500 people.

The relocation of the Arnold Clark is part of the second phase of the scheme which will comprise 384 homes; neighbourhood shops; flats; a community building, offices, a new primary school and commercial units.

Eddie Hawthorne, Managing Director of Arnold Clark commented:

“I am really looking forward to being part of what could be one of the most beneficial and revolutionary regeneration projects in West Lothian. Arnold Clark’s move to Station Road will bring a huge amount of potential for the Armadale branch; not only will there be extensive amounts of space to expand the offerings available to customers, we think that with the regeneration project will bring a host of new faces and businesses to the area, and we are looking forward to building up a relationship with everybody involved.”

The first phase of housing for the site by Taylor Wimpey and Bellway comprises 191 houses with an ASDA supermarket which opened in September 2012.

See http://www.armadalestation.co.uk/

Alex Orr, Managing Director.

Orbit Communications