Buildings at 5–7 and 9–11 East Clyde Street, Helensburgh have deteriorated due to a lack of maintenance by their private owners and now pose a significant risk to public safety.
To protect the public, East Clyde Street (A814) is closed to vehicles and pedestrians between Sinclair Street and Maitland Street. Access remains available to homes and businesses east of the affected buildings. (See map below.)
Argyll and Bute Council’s Building Standards team has been regularly inspecting the properties and carrying out essential safety works under statutory powers where necessary. The Council has also been exploring redevelopment opportunities, although progress has been complicated by the site's multiple ownerships.
Recent inspections identified a partial collapse of the gable wall at 5–7 East Clyde Street. Independent structural engineers have advised that there is a high risk of further deterioration and collapse.
The closure will remain in place until the buildings can be made safe. This is likely to require partial or full demolition.
We thank local businesses and the community for their support during this time.
News and updates
10 July 2026
The Council is again appealing to building owners to take action for the benefit of everyone following a third meeting with owners to discuss a solution for the dangerous buildings on East Clyde Street Helensburgh.
The state of the buildings is making the area unsafe for use and has led to road closures.
Unfortunately, there is no consensus with the property owners with two of the owners formally challenging the Dangerous Buildings Notice to Dumbarton Sheriff Court. The Council has limited powers in these matters with the latest action delaying matters further as we follow the necessary legal process.
We will continue to engage with the owners and our structural engineer, to consider our legal position under the Buildings (Scotland) Act and to ensure that public safety is protected through the road closure and diversions.
The safety of pedestrians and road users remains a priority. We have implemented a 12-month Temporary Traffic Regulation Order to manage traffic safely and to enable legal processes and works to complete. We will make every effort to minimise this timescale.
We would like to thank local businesses and the community for your ongoing support as we encourage the property owners to take responsible action.
Further updates will follow.
