New Loudoun Retail Park in Galston officially launches

Loudoun Retail Park in Galston is being hailed as the Irvine Valley’s “most significant” commercial development in 30 years.

The multimillion-pound East Ayrshire site, which officially opened on Thursday, November 13, is expected to create up to 60 jobs.

It is led by local businessmen Gareth Downie and Paul McIvor of Downie and McIvor Capital.

Gareth said: “This is genuinely the most significant development for the Irvine Valley in 30 years, not only in terms of private sector investment, but in the impact it will have on jobs, confidence and the quality of life in our community.

“Our aim from the outset was to bring proper amenities, modern retail and real economic activity back into the Valley, and it is already doing exactly that.”

East Ayrshire’s Irvine Valley received its "most significant economic boost in decades" with the launch of the new Loudoun Retail Park (Image: Supplied)

The site features an 11,000 sq ft Farmfoods store built to the retailer’s latest specification, and a 1,500 sq ft Greggs unit with plans to launch Just Eat deliveries.

Early footfall has exceeded expectations.

The retail park also includes eight 300kW ultra-rapid EV charging bays installed by E.ON — among the fastest in Scotland.

These chargers can take vehicles from around 10 to 80 per cent charge in under 20 minutes.

The developers believe this will position Galston as a convenient “stop and shop” destination for electric vehicle users.

Gareth said: “Historically, the Irvine Valley has been largely overlooked by national retailers, but this is now changing.

“The successful opening of Loudoun Retail Park demonstrates the strength of the local market and should act as a catalyst for further investment across the wider area.”

The park offers more than 100 parking spaces, including dedicated bays for disabled visitors, parents and children, and a separate area for EV charging.

It is estimated that more than 24,000 vehicles pass the site daily, with increased traffic since opening.

Paul said: “We wanted this to be a development that genuinely supports the local economy throughout its lifespan, from the contractors building it to the people working and shopping here.

“Throughout the construction phase, the project employed a broad range of local contractors and suppliers, supporting jobs locally, and we aim to continue that theme.

“The early response from local people has been fantastic, and we’re only just getting started.”

The developers are now marketing a remaining 3,000 sq ft of roadside retail space, which can be split into two units.

They are also offering a new 2,500 sq ft two-storey office building with parking, on-site retail, and access to the ultra-rapid EV chargers.

Gareth added: “This isn’t just about a retail park; it’s about the bigger picture. The jobs, footfall and amenities are important, but the real legacy will be the confidence it creates for further private investment across the Irvine Valley.”