Grand designs revamp derelict building

A village community centre which has lain derelict for around three decades could be turned into a house and design studio.

Colin McNab has submitted an application to Stirling Council planners to partially demolish and convert the Muirlands Community Centre in Fintry.

In his submission to planners Mr McNab said:“The proposal involves the refurbishment of the derelict former Muirlands School, which was previously extended in the 70s to form a community hall.

“The building has lain empty and unused since the late 90s and is in a considerable state of disrepair and was so when initially purchased from the council who sold the property on behalf of the community council.

“The site was previously awarded planning permission in 2004 for a commercial venture but unfortunately due to the extended nature of the purchasing procedure the commercial proposal fell through and my co-owner sought alternative accommodation.

“I personally purchased the ownership rights and title from the commercial venture company at market rates and am now the sole owner of the property.”

Mr McNab said he was now in a position to reinstate and refurbish the property for residential use.

He added:“The building having lain empty for such a long period of time has extensive dampness and rot. The proposal involves the retention of and the refurbishment both aesthetically and structurally of the front (circa 1800s) school hall together with the extensive modification and partial demolition of the 1970s extension which is in very bad condition and aesthetically of dubious value.

“The resultant quality building will be used as a home for the owner with a small ancillary area to support his design business in the form of a small design studio/workshop.”

The current parking area to the front of the property would be reduced to form off-street parking for the residents while retaining the required right of access to an adjoining private house, Muirlands Schoolhouse and securing property boundaries.

The back of the site would be given over to an open courtyard and a domestic vegetable garden.

Council planners will make a recommendation on the application in due course.