Give us a makeover, say west end families
Residents support proposals to bring in bulldozers
Families have backed plans to bulldoze swathes of Paisley’s west end.
Renfrewshire Council wants to raze crumbling tenements to make way for new housing.
Planners say their regeneration masterplan has been backed by locals during consultation, with almost 90 per cent calling for demolition.
Council leader Iain Nicolson insists the region will be transformed through the modernisation scheme.
He said: “The proposals have been well received, recognising a collective desire to improve the area.
“The area has challenges, but we are determined to meet these head-on.
“These proposals look to address low demand for existing housing and commercial premises and also bring surplus undeveloped land back into use.
“These proposals seek to deliver transformational change in the west end of Paisley.
“They have been developed in recognition of the importance of the area in the regeneration of Paisley town centre.
“I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to make their voice heard on the draft masterplan.
“We are continuing to consult with the public on these proposals and, feedback, so far, has underlined how important the west end of Paisley is to the people who live and work there.”
“Councillors from every party will consider these findings next week as we look to improve housing conditions and regenerate Renfrewshire communities.”
Homes, commercial units, student digs and community gardens will be levelled under proposals for 150 new homes.
The local authority wants to tear down 19 tenement blocks around Well Street, Underwood Lane, Clavering Street East, Sutherland Street, Oakshaw Brae and West Brae.
The vacant former University of the West of Scotland Halls of Residence and allotments on Sutherland Street will also be redeveloped.
And 28 ground-floor shop units will also go, with no guarantee they will be replaced.
More than half of tenants in the area and over a fifth of homeowners and 86 per cent of businesses in the area were canvassed over the plans.
Almost all those in council properties agreed with demolition, backed by 80 per cent of owners.
More than half – 62 per cent of families – insist they want to remain in the west end if work goes ahead, compared to just 14 per cent who want to leave.
Residents hailed local amenities, public transport links and the closeness of the community.
But they say drug crime, anti-social behaviour, vandalism and high levels of empty flats are causing problems.
No budget has been set for the scheme, but £ 10million has been earmarked through Renfrewshire’s strategic housing investment plan and Holyrood investment will be sought.
Councillors will consider approving the next stage of the development next week, which would give the go-ahead for full costing.
For more information and to give views on the project, call the local authority’s planning and housing team on 0141 618 6003.