Derelict care home plagued by vandals could get new life

NEW talks could reveal light at the end of the tunnel for a vacant Cardonald care home which has been plagued by vandalism.

The former home on Forfar Avenue has lay empty for around two years and quickly became a hotspot for antisocial behaviour, prompting pleas from desperate residents to tackle the issue.

However, we can reveal talks are under way to transform the site.

Loretta Housing Association is in early discussions with Glasgow City Council about a potential development to turn the derelict building into flats.

Councillor Jim Kavanagh, inset, who represents the area, said: “Since it’s been closed, it’s been subject to vandalism and antisocial behaviour giving the elderly neighbours roundabout an absolute nightmare.

“It looks as though this would be subject to planning permission, but if it was approved, it would be a great thing for the area.

“This would alleviate vandalism problems.”

Mr Kavanagh insisted talks were still in their “early days”, but was hopeful it could spell good news for the quiet street.

It’s understood around 28 to 32 properties could be erected at the site. The area, which lies between residential housing and the popular Cardonald Bowling Club, could be turned into flats for the over55s – in a bid to help keep older people in their own homes for as long as possible. A spokesman for Loretto said: “We are in discussions with Glasgow City Council on future plans for this site.” A Glasgow City Council spokesman added: “Discussions are continuing with the housing association about the potential sale of this site, which would be used to develop new-build amenity flats.”