A dynamic and comprehensive plan is underway to inject new life into Blairgowrie’s bustling High Street, promising a fresh era of community and commerce. Kevin Donald, a 54-year-old local entrepreneur with deep roots in the town, is spearheading the ambitious redevelopment of the prominent building that formerly housed M&Co. His vision extends beyond mere retail, aiming to create a multi-faceted hub that will significantly boost footfall and engagement in the heart of Blairgowrie, a vital hub within Perth and Kinross.
The closure of M&Co in 2023 left a noticeable void on the High Street, reflecting a trend seen in many Scottish towns. Donald, who previously owned Mitchells Newsagents in Blairgowrie for 13 years, recognized the potential of the large, well-situated property. Rather than simply seeking a like-for-like replacement, he envisioned a diverse offering that could cater to a broader spectrum of local needs and interests, thereby strengthening the town’s overall appeal. His proposals, which are currently awaiting planning permission, reflect a keen understanding of modern town centre dynamics, where a mix of uses often outperforms single-purpose retail. Transforming Retail and Cultivating Workspaces
The ground floor of the former M&Co premises is set for a flexible transformation into either four smaller, distinct retail units or two more expansive shopping spaces. This adaptability is key to attracting a variety of businesses, potentially including a new clothing or shoe outlet, which would fill a gap created by recent local closures like The Factory Shop. By offering diverse retail options, the aim is to draw more shoppers to the High Street, encouraging them to explore other local businesses in turn. This strategic approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of local enterprises and the positive ripple effect new businesses can have.
Beyond retail, Donald’s plans include the creation of modern, flexible office, workshop, or meeting spaces on the upper levels of the building. This element of the development is particularly forward-thinking, catering to the growing demand for adaptable professional environments in more rural settings like Blairgowrie. Six individual office spaces are envisioned at the rear of the building, each accessible via a keypad entry system, allowing for flexible booking arrangements. Tenants would benefit from shared kitchen facilities and toilet amenities, fostering a collaborative yet independent working environment. The presence of professionals working on the High Street would naturally translate into increased custom for local cafes, eateries, and shops, providing a consistent boost to the local economy throughout the working week. A Community Hub for Movement and Expression
Perhaps one of the most exciting additions to Blairgowrie’s cultural landscape will be a dedicated dance studio, planned for the basement level of the building. This creative space is designed to be fully accessible, with separate entry from the rear of the property and a dedicated drop-off zone for children, ensuring safety and convenience for young participants. The inclusion of a disabled toilet in the basement further underscores the commitment to inclusivity. Such a studio could become a vibrant centre for performing arts in Blairgowrie, offering classes for various age groups and abilities, from toddlers taking their first steps in ballet to adults exploring new dance forms. It represents a significant investment in community well-being and cultural enrichment, providing opportunities for physical activity, artistic expression, and social connection that are invaluable to any town. A Passion for Blairgowrie’s Future
For Kevin Donald, this venture is clearly more than just a commercial undertaking; it’s a profound expression of his dedication to his hometown. Having lived in Blairgowrie his entire life and having run a successful local business for over a decade, his motivation is rooted in a desire to see the town thrive. He openly acknowledges the challenges but is driven by a deep-seated commitment to contribute positively to Blairgowrie’s future. His sentiment, that ‘it doesn’t matter what goes in the shops – as long as they’re occupied, that’s what counts,’ perfectly encapsulates the community-first approach driving this ambitious project. This kind of local initiative is crucial for towns across Perth and Kinross, demonstrating how individual passion and foresight can lead to significant urban renewal and community benefits.
The proposed development promises to breathe new life into a key High Street property, transforming it into a dynamic hub that combines essential retail, flexible workspaces, and a much-needed cultural facility. If approved, this project will not only address commercial vacancies but also foster a stronger sense of community and economic vibrancy in Blairgowrie, setting a positive example for other towns looking to revitalise their centres.
The closure of M&Co in 2023 left a noticeable void on the High Street, reflecting a trend seen in many Scottish towns. Donald, who previously owned Mitchells Newsagents in Blairgowrie for 13 years, recognized the potential of the large, well-situated property. Rather than simply seeking a like-for-like replacement, he envisioned a diverse offering that could cater to a broader spectrum of local needs and interests, thereby strengthening the town’s overall appeal. His proposals, which are currently awaiting planning permission, reflect a keen understanding of modern town centre dynamics, where a mix of uses often outperforms single-purpose retail. Transforming Retail and Cultivating Workspaces
The ground floor of the former M&Co premises is set for a flexible transformation into either four smaller, distinct retail units or two more expansive shopping spaces. This adaptability is key to attracting a variety of businesses, potentially including a new clothing or shoe outlet, which would fill a gap created by recent local closures like The Factory Shop. By offering diverse retail options, the aim is to draw more shoppers to the High Street, encouraging them to explore other local businesses in turn. This strategic approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of local enterprises and the positive ripple effect new businesses can have.
Beyond retail, Donald’s plans include the creation of modern, flexible office, workshop, or meeting spaces on the upper levels of the building. This element of the development is particularly forward-thinking, catering to the growing demand for adaptable professional environments in more rural settings like Blairgowrie. Six individual office spaces are envisioned at the rear of the building, each accessible via a keypad entry system, allowing for flexible booking arrangements. Tenants would benefit from shared kitchen facilities and toilet amenities, fostering a collaborative yet independent working environment. The presence of professionals working on the High Street would naturally translate into increased custom for local cafes, eateries, and shops, providing a consistent boost to the local economy throughout the working week. A Community Hub for Movement and Expression
Perhaps one of the most exciting additions to Blairgowrie’s cultural landscape will be a dedicated dance studio, planned for the basement level of the building. This creative space is designed to be fully accessible, with separate entry from the rear of the property and a dedicated drop-off zone for children, ensuring safety and convenience for young participants. The inclusion of a disabled toilet in the basement further underscores the commitment to inclusivity. Such a studio could become a vibrant centre for performing arts in Blairgowrie, offering classes for various age groups and abilities, from toddlers taking their first steps in ballet to adults exploring new dance forms. It represents a significant investment in community well-being and cultural enrichment, providing opportunities for physical activity, artistic expression, and social connection that are invaluable to any town. A Passion for Blairgowrie’s Future
For Kevin Donald, this venture is clearly more than just a commercial undertaking; it’s a profound expression of his dedication to his hometown. Having lived in Blairgowrie his entire life and having run a successful local business for over a decade, his motivation is rooted in a desire to see the town thrive. He openly acknowledges the challenges but is driven by a deep-seated commitment to contribute positively to Blairgowrie’s future. His sentiment, that ‘it doesn’t matter what goes in the shops – as long as they’re occupied, that’s what counts,’ perfectly encapsulates the community-first approach driving this ambitious project. This kind of local initiative is crucial for towns across Perth and Kinross, demonstrating how individual passion and foresight can lead to significant urban renewal and community benefits.
The proposed development promises to breathe new life into a key High Street property, transforming it into a dynamic hub that combines essential retail, flexible workspaces, and a much-needed cultural facility. If approved, this project will not only address commercial vacancies but also foster a stronger sense of community and economic vibrancy in Blairgowrie, setting a positive example for other towns looking to revitalise their centres.