Largs: Councillor asks North Ayrshire Council about M and Co

The property has been vacant since April, with no sign of any For Sale or To Let signs going up on the property since it closed.

The town has been buzzing with rumours about potential purchasers of the premises - but as yet, there has been little sign of any movement at the vacant building.

Cllr Murdoch told the News that he has asked North Ayrshire Council to explore the situation going forward.

Cllr Ian Murdoch wants NAC to explore ongoing situation (Image: Newsquest)

He said: "I have asked NAC if they can look into the situation to find out what is happening with the building and the likelihood of getting a suitable business in keeping with Largs town centre and improve the retail experience.

"It is far too prominent a building in town to be sitting there empty.

"Whether it is sold as one building, or into sections, I would personally prefer it to be as one building, but we will have to see what happens.

"But the sooner it is sold or split into sections the better as it could then open up and increase employment opportunities, and improve upon the retail experience."

Cllr Murdoch pointed out that there appeared to be a survey of the property taking place today at the site,  and a floor plan being assessed, adding: "That, to my mind, is a positive sign, and hopefully something is happening which is progressing the sale of the site."

Shut shop - Largs Main Street (Image: Newsquest)

The closing date for M&Co in Largs was April 22 as store manager Fiona Moon thanked staff and customers for their overwhelming support over an emotionally challenging  last few months, for managemnet and staff.

Fiona described recent months as "testing in the extreme", given the circumstances of the impending closure - but told the News that her staff have been completely professional throughout and praised customers for their strong show of support and loyalty.

The M&Co brand was bought by AK Retail, owners of Yours Clothing, BadRhino, Long Tall Sally and Pixiegirl, after the company was put into administration for the second time in December.

But news of the deal was accompanied by an announcement on M&Co's social media pages stating that the deal did not include the firm's stores, staff or website.

A sharp rise in its costs, coupled with a decline in consumer confidence leading to increased pressure on cash flows and trading losses, was blamed for the retailer's financial woes.

And Ian has also provided an update on the situation regarding the current situation regarding the wait for the construction of the M&S Foodhall - and wanted to make it clear that NAC were not in any way responsible for the delay.

Foodhall site - utility issue has slowed progress (Image: Ian Murdoch)

He said: "There are no materials on site that would prevent completion of the demolition.

"The completion of the demolition and progress with the future of the site, has been held up by a minimum 12 weeks wait to disconnect the utilities.

"That's why the architect's loft and the garage utility cupboard, have not been demolished."

The store, which is expected to create 50 jobs upon completion, was originally expected to open this summer, though the company later revised that to December. 

The firm now says the facility - which is expected to create 50 new jobs in the town - will not open until spring 2024.

AK Retail has been contacted for comment regarding the future of the vacant M&Co building.