Wimpey move closer to old hospital site

A massive housing estate on the grounds of Johnstone Hospital is a step closer.

Taylor Wimpey wants to build 110 homes on the grounds of the former medical centre.

Planners have backed the proposals to bring the site back into use.

Fraser Carlin, head of planning and housing for Renfrewshire Council, revealed the decision in a report.

He said: “The site of the former Johnstone Hospital was identified as a site that will assist in meeting the overall housing need and demand arising in Renfrewshire.

“The Local Housing Strategy identifies that there is a need for affordable homes across Renfrewshire.

“However, there is a particular emphasis on north and west Renfrewshire.

“Taylor Wimpy confirmed it has had 117 people register their interest in purchasing a property at the site.

“Around 40 of those had registered at the public consultation event at Tweedie Hall that was carried out by the developer early in the planning application process.”

The housebuilder held a public exhibition to display ideas and discuss the project with the public.

It revealed plans for a mix of three and four- bedroom detached and semi-detached properties.

Bosses insist it garnered “interest” and “those consulted were supportive of the proposals”.

They say families “welcomed the investment being made” and the “opportunities” that the proposed development may bring.

The firm has targeted the area due to its close transport links to the rest of Renfrewshire and Glasgow.

New roads and footpaths will be built to accommodate the buildings.

Families had raised fears schools may not be able to cope with an influx of new pupils.

Mr Carlin confirmed the area would fall under the catchment of nearby classrooms.

He added: “The director of children’s services confirmed that the proposed residential site is within the primary school catchment area of St Margaret’s Primary School and Kilbarchan Primary School.

“It is also in the catchment area of St Benedict’s High School and Johnstone High School.

“All schools have the capacity to take new pupils from the residential development.

“With regards to safe walking routes to school, children from this development would require in some instances to be bused to school.”