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A new smartphone app is set to launch next month in a bid to boost business and footfall in Arbroath.

Our Arbroath will help people discover what’s on, where to go, and how to make the most of their time locally.

Described as “like tourist information in your pocket”, the digital town hub will feature the latest deals from independent shops and restaurants as well as travelling and parking information and even weather forecasts.

So far, more than 60 businesses, community groups and local organisations have signed up for free to be part of the Our Arbroath app.

Local businesswoman Lucy Nicholl, who is spearheading the project, is urging others to come forward ahead of the official launch on December 1.

The digital town hub is part of Arbroath Town Board’s efforts to regenerate the Angus seaside town, which has come under fire for its “run-down” town centre in recent years.

In March 2024, Arbroath was selected as part of the UK Government’s Long Term Plan for Towns, with £20 million promised over the next decade.

Lucy, who runs a small HR firm that supports independent businesses, is “beyond excited” to be leading the project.

Lucy said: “I’m proud of how the locals, businesses and groups have come together to support the new initiative.

“Some people believe Arbroath doesn’t have much to offer, but this digital town hub will prove otherwise by highlighting all of the amazing things we have right on our doorstep.

“The more organisations we have onboard, the greater the value will be for everyone and I’m very much looking forward to it all coming together in time for Christmas.

“I hope it will boost footfall and encourage locals and visitors to try new places.”

Lucy, who secured private funding for the app’s initial rollout, added: “It is an amazing tool to have in your pocket.

“Each user can tell it what they are interested in, such as family friendly or vegetarian places.

“It can suggest great places to eat and things to do on a particular day and also how to get there.”

The app, created by Loqiva, will feature a Christmas-themed trail during December and bricks-and-mortar businesses that sign up will be able to use it to sell their products.

A similar app, Love St Andrews, was launched in the Fife town in August.

This article appeared in The Courier on 15 November 2025