Ruins could be cleared to build flats

Fire-ravaged ruins of a grand house linked to Paisley’s threadmaking industry could be cleared to build flats.

Bellside Developments wants to clear rubble to make way for 18 homes in Hunterhill Road.

The buildings — which were once owned by mill owners from the Coats family — were gutted after a blaze tore through the grounds.

The house builder has unveiled its vision for the land in a report submitted to planners.

It stated: “The proposal comprises the erection of two buildings, identical in design and each three storeys in height.

“A total of 18 flats is proposed, with each building containing nine flats, with three on every floor.

“All the flats contain a lounge, dining and kitchen space, bathroom, and two bedrooms, one with an ensuite.

“Without creating overdevelopment on the site, the proposed building blocks offer the opportunity to create a sense of place and identity with its own distinctive character in the form of a modern and fresh looking development finished with highquality external finishing materials.

“The external finishes proposed for the buildings will be a black or grey roof tile, coloured render for the walls, with red-facing brick base course and grey painted windows.

“Car parking for the proposed development equates to 20 spaces, including two disabled spaces.”

Neighbours watched in horror as the derelict home went up in flames in May.

The blaze ripped through the two-storey detached house at 2am.

Neighbours told how smoke was seen billowing from the property as crews worked to make it safe.

The damage wrecked the main house, with the roof collapsing in the heat.

Fire chiefs were told a gang of youngsters had been seen hanging around the area.

A mountain of blonde sandstone from the demolished house was saved.

West Coast Reclamation in nearby Underwood Road is selling 20 tonnes of materials left behind.

A decision on the planning application is expected in December.