More flats planned for old Arnotts site
Developer plans 26 apartments at iconic location
Dozens more flats will be built under new plans for the former Arnotts department store.
Link Group has unveiled plans for 26 apartments in the iconic town centre shop building.
The proposals form the third phase of the development.
Planners signalled approval for the project in a report to Renfrewshire Council.
It stated: “Planning permission is sought for the erection of residential development comprising 26 flats on Smithhills Street.
“It follows the demolition of buildings formerly comprising the former arnotts department store within the Paisley town centre conservation area.
“To the rear of the proposed flatted block, the applicant further proposes car parking provision to serve the development and a degree of amenity space.
“Access to the development is proposed to be taken from Lawn Street via an existing access point with car parking provided within the rear back court area.”
A crumbling section of the building was earmarked for demolition after surveyors found crumbling walls, rot and water damage.
The flats will be built on the block bordering the Tile Bar.
Living rooms will face onto the road, with bedrooms placed at the back, overlooking a courtyard and car park.
Extensive work has already been carried out at the iconic B-listed site, which was designed by JS Steel Maitland and opened as Cochrans in 1927.
Planners have recommended the blueprints are approved by council chiefs.
But they have called on the housebuilder to take further steps before families can move in.
It wants full designs for all fences and walls to be submitted for review.
Landscaping proposals must also be outlined, including were shrubs or grass will be placed.
All plants must be onsite before the last home is occupied.
A dust management plan must also be brought forward. It will lay out how shoppers and firms will be protected from debris during lengthy building works.
And an archaeological programme must be launched to make sure any items of historical importance are found and logged before construction gets underway.
T h e p l a n n i n g re p o r t added: “The proposals for the introduction of residential units, located with an appropriately designed building, will reinstate the urban fabric at this prominent location.
“It will contribute to its vitality and viability, while bringing into use a site which has lain vacant for some considerable time.
“It is therefore recommended that planning permission be granted subject to conditions.”
Arnott’s took over in 1973 and was run by House of Fraser until its closure in 2004.
Pendulum Bar and Grill opened in its ground-floor last year.
It is owned and run by the Cardosi family of restaurateurs.
Above is 11 luxury apartments overlooking Paisley Abbey and Town Hall.