Shannon Milmine

South Lanarkshire Council’s Planning Committee approved plans to convert a vacant unit at Motor Fuel Group’s petrol station on Ladyacre Road, Lanark, into a 31-seat cafe or restaurant and add three covered jet wash bays. The proposal received eight public objections concerning noise, privacy, lighting, traffic, parking, drainage, pollution and health, but planning officers found the development acceptable. Approval conditions restrict operating hours, require ventilation and impose construction traffic-management measures.

South Lanarkshire councillors have postponed a decision on The Glendevon Group Ltd's proposal to convert the vacant former Masons Arms Hotel in Lesmahagow into two houses and two flats. Planning officers previously refused the application over insufficient parking, problematic access arrangements and inadequate natural light for the ground-floor flat. The council considers residential use of the town-centre site acceptable in principle, but the refusal remains in place while the Planning Local Review Body seeks further consideration.

South Lanarkshire Council has launched a public consultation on its new five-year plan, inviting residents to participate in an online survey through September to help shape priorities for 2027–2032. Chief executive Paul Manning said the feedback will guide future service planning, with a draft plan to undergo a second consultation in early 2027. Details and access to the survey are available on the council’s website.

South Lanarkshire Council has introduced new rules requiring bulk uplift items to be left within property boundaries rather than on pavements to improve street appearance and reduce hazards. Residents are instructed to place items in accessible areas such as gardens, driveways or communal spaces and to follow guidelines for preparing items, ensuring visibility, access and safety for collection crews.

Councillors approved the Full Business Case for a new £27.8 million leisure centre in Larkhall, enabling the project to move toward full construction under the Glasgow City Region City Deal. The plan includes a modern pool, gym, wellness facilities and sports hall, with sustainability features built in. Local councillors welcomed the clarity provided to address community concerns and stressed the need for stronger communication as the project progresses. Enabling works have already begun, with major construction expected to start in August and completion targeted for 2028.

South Lanarkshire Council agreed to review traffic‑calming measures in Carstairs following a petition from the Carstairs and District Community Council, which raised concerns about effectiveness and safety issues. The matter will be examined by the council’s Road Safety Forum, with further consultation planned before any changes are proposed. No immediate alterations will be made while the review and community engagement continue over the coming months.