A new mixed-use development in Polmont has been tipped to deliver £120 million of investment, create hundreds of jobs, and provide ‘much-needed’ housing, if approved by Falkirk Council.
The application for Planning Permission in Principle by Hansteen Land Ltd is for 55.6ha of land to the east of Gilston Crescent.
The proposed mixed-use neighbourhood will provide employment and commercial land, around 500 homes – including 25% affordable housing – large areas of parkland, and a new neighbourhood centre with potential for retail and community use.
After previous planning proposals for the site were unable to attract large scale business users, Hansteen is seeking approval for this revised mix of uses. This includes c. 2.5ha of serviceable employment land for new or local businesses, start-up business enterprises and workshops.
Around 80 direct construction jobs and 70 indirect jobs are expected to be created for every year of construction.
New areas of connected parks will be established, with Gilston Burn forming a ‘key focus’ of the neighbourhood. A central sustainable urban drainage (SUDS) pond and ecological habitat areas will be provided, with a boardwalk forming part of a new path network.
A representative from Hansteen Land Ltd said, “The Gilston Park development will bring considerable economic benefits to the local community, delivering a jobs boost and millions of pounds worth of investment. Creating considerable employment and commercial opportunities, the development will also serve to deliver much-needed housing, including affordable housing.
“The delivery of linked parks, play areas and new habitat areas will also serve to deliver significant environmental and recreational benefits. Our proposals will greatly assist in the regeneration of the area and if approved we look forward to continue to work with the Council and the local community on their delivery.”
