The joint parliamentary consultation launched by Hamilton’s MP and MSP to regenerate Hamilton Town Centre has drawn to a close.  

On completion, the survey gathered 1807 responses from business owners, residents and shoppers alike.

The action plan to regenerate the Town Centre was set up after a special investigation found that 45 business premises in Hamilton currently lie empty.

The next phase in the action plan is for the Parliamentarians to produce a report, outlining the survey responses and make recommendations for policy change.

Commenting on the completion of the survey, Angela Crawley MP said:

“Thank you to each and every one of you for engaging with the Town Centre consultation.

“The level of community spirit throughout the process has been unprecedented, and the call for action has never been louder.

“As the analysis of the survey responses begin, one thing is clear: the people of Hamilton want change.

“That’s why the next stage in our action plan is so important.

“Christina and I will now formulate a report and make the case to South Lanarkshire Council for a change in policy direction that reflects your views.

“A shift in policy that acts brings jobs, growth and people back into our local economy.”

Following on, Christina McKelvie MSP said: “The response to survey has been overwhelming but not surprising.

“I knew the residents of Hamilton would answer the call when asked about their town.

“I thank each and every person who took the time to write back to Angela and I.

“The responses will now be collated and the findings presented, with a joint report being commissioned in the near future.

“Make no mistake, this is just the beginning. This consultation signals the start of what can be a revitalising and exciting future for our town centre.”