A brand-new independent venue is set to open in East Kilbride this November, following a £700,000 investment to transform the former Coppertrees restaurant on St James Way.
The venue, which will be called Ruby’s, has now closed temporarily to allow for a full refurbishment. Once complete, it will open as a bar and restaurant with over 100 covers, with an expected launch date in November.
The project is being led by Struan Barclay and former Crystal Palace and Scotland international footballer James McArthur. Struan has a strong family connection to the trade through Buzzworks Holdings – his mother is Alison Blair, who recently won Inspirational Woman of the Year at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards. Ruby’s said that Struan “will draw on his background to ensure Ruby’s becomes a venue East Kilbride can be proud of, and a destination that attracts people from across the wider region.”
Struan Barclay said, “James and I are really excited to be opening in East Kilbride and bringing this fantastic venue to life. Our vision is to create a space that feels welcoming for every occasion – whether it’s breakfast with family, a special celebratory meal, or simply catching up over a drink. Most importantly, we’re committed to supporting our brilliant team here at the venue and creating new local job opportunities as we grow. This is about adding something fresh to the town’s hospitality scene, and building a dining and drinking destination people can enjoy for years to come.”
Ruby’s will include a family and dog-friendly heated garden, big screens for live sport, and a mix of spaces for everything from a quiet pint to cocktails with friends. The food and drink offering will focus on locally sourced dishes, alongside a drinks list that includes fresh lager, Guinness, cocktails and a good choice of alcohol-free options.
All current staff are being kept on, with more roles expected to be created as the opening approaches.