THE £3.2 million project to transform Airdrie’s historic Orrs Department Store into housing has been completed.
North Lanarkshire Council partnered with Wilson Developments on the project, with it marking a ‘significant’ milestone in the region’s town centre regeneration plans.
For nearly 150 years, Orrs was a beloved shopping destination for the local community. Following its closure in 2007, the vacant building became a concern for residents – with years of uncertainty and stalled plans ensuing.
North Lanarkshire Council later stepped in with the redevelopment delivering 20 new flats and ground-level commercial properties offering retail or community spaces. The local authority said it plans on installing a cycle store at the rear court of Orrs to promote sustainable transportation options for new residents.
Jim Logue, leader of North Lanarkshire Council, said, “This redevelopment project has been a long time in coming and I’m delighted to see it finally complete. The building had become an eye sore and hopefully now, it will offer residents a reason to be proud of their town centre once again.
“The new flats look fantastic, combine heritage preservation with modern living solutions and we’rethrilled to breathe new life into this landmark site.
“It was great to welcome the first tenants and I’m sure they will enjoy living in their new homes in the heart of the town. The hard work continues though, as we look to further improve the town centre and provide more quality housing and amenities for our communities.“
