Lochee Redevelopment Plan Proposed

Lochee residents could have the chance to give their views on the need for a new health centre/community facility, similar to the Life Services building being built in Whitfield, if a proposed redevelopment plan goes ahead.

The plan, which also recommends the creation of a car park, public transport hub, new commercial retail buildings, housing and partial demolition of the Highgate Centre, will be the subject of public consultation if councillors back the move.

Will Dawson, convener of Dundee City Council's city development committee said: "The regeneration of Lochee has come a long way in recent years, but is still very much a work in progress.


"This next phase looks to put the heart back into the High Street by removing most of the Highgate and reopening links between the district centre and the by-pass to create more opportunities for business and a greater sense of activity."

A framework for the regeneration of Lochee was approved in 2008. It identified that negative perceptions of the area were a result of poor quality housing, the high number of vacant retail units and a lack of modern retail opportunities, as well as accessibility issues and transport connections.

Since then more than £2m has been invested in the infrastructure, clearing the Weaver's Village and buying the Highgate Centre.

The city development committee, which meets on Monday, (January 23) will be told that the redevelopment plan provides a basis on which to work with local businesses and community groups as well as attracting future investors to deliver quality redevelopment.

Any health services/community use building would be likely to be sited at the south end of the High Street in close proximity to other community buildings, including the library and swimming pool.

(GK/DW)