THE old police station in Tillicoultry has been sold and planning permission granted for a commercial venture.

Marion Edwards, who lives in Dollar, has purchased the premises for her business Marion Edwards Therapies, which will offer natural face and body treatments and is currently based in Menstrie. 

Therapies include tattoo removal, laser treatments and skin tightening and rejuvenation.

Marion said: “I had been looking for a property that would be more easily found by clients and give me additional space for therapies and a reception area.”

It was Marion’s husband, architect Graham Edwards, who initially suggested the premises.

Unconvinced at first, Marion was persuaded by the plans for bespoke therapy rooms and a three-bedroom flat that Graham drew up.

She said: “My husband Graham suggested I consider it due to its great

ocation between the High Street and the Sterling retail outlets, in addition to its close proximity to Murray Square bus terminal.”

Now that planning permission has been granted Marion can’t wait to get started.

She added: “I am really excited to proceed with the works and I am looking forward to having the therapy rooms and apartment completed.”

The plans include a reception, two therapy rooms and an accessible bathroom on the ground floor. 

There will be separate entrances for the Marion’s business and the accommodation will be put up for rent.

It consists of three bedrooms, including one on ground level, an open-plan living area, kitchen and diner and one bathroom on the first floor. 

The station has lain empty since 2012 when there was an attempt to move officers into the Ben Cleuch centre, but presence there was minimal and soon stopped.

Tilly councillor Archie Drummond, in his then position as member of the joint board of Central Scotland Police, informally suggested it could be purchased by Clackmannanshire Council for use as social housing.

Discussions ended when Police Scotland was formed in 2013 and the building has been unused until now.

Cllr Drummond said: “I welcome the fact that the building is being brought back into productive use and I am familiar with the planning application.

“I wish the new owners well with their venture and welcome them to the life of our community.”

The work is due to be completed early next year and Marion will continue to work from her base at Elmbank Mill until this is finished.