Official opening of Grange business centre

The Scotmid supermarket on the site of the former Grange bingo in Stevenston was officially opened last Tuesday (March 6) by Alex Neil MSP, the Scottish Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment.

The store began trading last November, creating 12 new jobs, and last Tuesday’s ceremony coincided with the announcement of the first tenant of offices above the supermarket, with Sterling Efforts Administrative Services Ltd, a company offering what it describes as ‘an holistic financial support service’ moving into the business centre.  Nikki Niven, Managing Director of Sterling Efforts, said, “We will be using our new office to expand our operations in the debt support sector to assist those households suffering from financial difficulties or who wish to reduce their monthly outgoings. We are currently working with North Ayrshire Council to immediately bring two new administrative jobs to Stevenson with a further post to follow before the end of 2012.”

Commenting on the Grange development, Alex Neil said, “The new business centre will bring a focus back to the town centre and will help attract businesses and new jobs to the town.  It is entirely fitting that the site, which has always played a pivotal role in the life of the town, has been regenerated for the benefit of generations to come.”

Mr Neil was supported by his SNP colleague, local MSP Margaret Burgess, who added, “The Grange offers good-quality business accommodation with its flexible business, retail and workshop space.  It is well-suited to encouraging the small businesses on which our economy will depend. 

 

The Cunninghame South MSP believes the facility provides an important element in new business start-ups and attracting business to Stevenston.   “It will help stimulate the economy and help the local fight for jobs,” said Mrs Burgess.

Originally a cinema, the Grange latterly traded as a bingo before being closed and lying empty for a number of years.  After being purchased for redevelopment, the building was demolished in December 2009, with the Scotmid store opening for business eleven months later.