Flats plan lifeline for dilapidated social club
Iconic building could be restored to its former glory
The India Tyres social club could be ‘reopened’ under plans to transform it into flats.
The B-listed building will be turned into 11 homes under proposals submitted to planners.
DarntonB3 Architects has drawn- up blueprints for the revamp that is being considered by Renfrewshire Council.
Project bosses say renovation into properties is the best way to save the period features of the historic site in a report to the local authority.
It stated: “The Memorandum on Listed Buildings and conservation areas states that the best use for a historic building is usually the one for which it was designed.
“In this instance, due to the closure of the factory and declining membership of the club, it was put on the market.
“In this case, it was necessary to find an appropriate alternative use without losing the architectural and historic features of the building.
“We feel that a flatted development is best suited to the property.
“It has been noted that there has been concerns that services to the new development, and ducting and ventilation would alter the external appearance of the flat.
“We have endeavoured to minimise alterations to the external appearance.
“Should the property be reinstated to its former use or offices, there is a greater requirement for the installation of air conditioning and ventilation to satisfy current building regulations.
“This would cause further unattractive alterations to the rear façade.”
The building on High Street, Renfrew, was built in 1926 for the Renfrew Equitable Co-operative Society.
It could be split into one and two-bedroom flats if proposals are given the green-light by the council.
As previously reported by the Express, the building was placed at-risk by Historic Scotland due to its poor state in 2012.
Experts reported problems with damp and neglect, with families and politicians calling for it to be saved.
Councillor Bill Perrie and MSP Derek Mackay have been among those urging that the eyesore be restored to its former glory.
India Tyres used it as a social club, with offices, bars and a large dance hall and stage.
A fire exit at 14 High Street will be used as entry to a common close, with the main entrance also used.
The India Tyre and Rubber Co. set up its factory in nearby Inchinnan in 1927.
Bosses built Allands Avenue and India Drive nearby to accommodate some of the 2,500 workers.
The iconic A- listed art deco office block was opened in 1930, but the firm closed 50 years later.
A decision is due on the planning application in December.