With the recent announcement of the Grangemouth oil refinery’s closure, some investors may be questioning the future of commercial property in Falkirk. But take a closer look, and you’ll see a town at the heart of a major economic transition — one that’s backed by serious investment, strong infrastructure, and long-term growth strategies.

Here’s why Falkirk remains one of Scotland’s most compelling places to invest in commercial property in 2025 and beyond.

1. Central Belt Location Remains a Key Advantage

Falkirk’s geographical position remains one of its strongest assets. Situated almost exactly halfway between Edinburgh and Glasgow, it offers fast, direct access to both via road and rail making it an ideal base for regional distribution, commuting, and customer reach.

2. Grangemouth Closure Spurs Regeneration – Not Retreat

While the scheduled closure of the Grangemouth refinery marks a significant change, it has triggered substantial government intervention designed to future-proof the region’s economy. A joint UK and Scottish Government strategy includes a £100 million support package to revitalise the area and 9 low carbon and renewable options for the site have been identified in an independent report.

Far from signaling decline, these developments represent a transition — and a real opportunity for investors willing to think long-term.

3. Falkirk Gateway: A Major Mixed-Use Development

A major transformation is underway. The £140 million Falkirk Gateway development is set to deliver new business parks, hotels, retail space, and leisure facilities next to Falkirk Stadium. This regeneration initiative, expected to be completed early 2027, is a cornerstone of the wider Falkirk Growth Deal, aimed at boosting the local economy and attracting high-value sectors.

4. Demand Remains Strong Across Key Property Sectors

Despite changes in the industrial landscape, demand for commercial property in Falkirk remains across multiple sectors.

Industrial & Logistics
Falkirk’s industrial estates continue to attract occupiers seeking affordable and accessible locations in Scotland’s Central Belt.

• Middlefield Industrial Estate, remains popular due to its proximity to the M9 and the town centre.
• Bankside Industrial Estate. Units here are in demand from trades, logistics, and light industrial businesses.

 

Retail & Hospitality
Tourism and local footfall continue to support town centre retail and hospitality.

• Attractions such as The Kelpies and The Falkirk Wheel bring in more than 800,000 visitors a year. This steady influx supports local cafés, retail units, and leisure operators, particularly those near Helix Park and the town centre.

 

Flexible Office & Managed Spaces
Hybrid working has created new opportunities for suburban office spaces and co-working hubs.

• Callendar Business Park offers quality office accommodation and hosts major occupiers like DM Hall.
• Businesses continue to relocate to the Falkirk Gateway area, citing benefits such as modern office facilities, motorway access, and parking.

 

Development Land & Mixed-Use Sites
There is also rising interest in mixed-use developments, particularly around regeneration zones:

• The transformation of the Grangemouth site into a fuel import/export terminal, alongside efforts to attract low-carbon industries, is sparking interest in land suitable for industrial or energy sector redevelopment.
• The Falkirk Gateway project is unlocking opportunities for retail, office, hotel, and leisure investments as part of the £140 million mixed-use scheme.

 

These examples show that Falkirk continues to attract interest across industrial, office, and retail sectors, supported by its central location, infrastructure, and long-term vision.

 

5. Government and Council Support for Investment

Falkirk Council is actively promoting inward investment and business growth. The local authority is engaged in:

• Fast-tracking planning for key sites
• Encouraging sustainable business practices
• Partnering with investors to support long-term commercial growth

 

Combined with national-level funding and a forward-thinking energy strategy, this positions Falkirk as a location with real vision — and increasing support for diversification beyond fossil fuels.

Final Thoughts: A Town Ready for the Next Chapter

Falkirk is in transition — and that makes it an exciting time for commercial property investors. From regeneration projects and energy innovation to connectivity and affordability, the town’s fundamentals remain strong.

Whether you’re investing in logistics, high street retail, or next-gen office space, Falkirk offers solid potential and a resilient, future-facing business environment.

Explore commercial properties in Falkirk on NovaLoca.

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