EMPTY B-LISTED BUILDING ‘NOT SAFE’ Demolition plans for iconic Brown Institute in Renfrew Council‘saddened’by decision
A historic building in Renfrew that has lain empty for a number of years is facing demolition after it was deemed dangerous.
The Brown Institute in Canal Street is set to be torn down in a move considered necessary to ensure public safety in the area.
The iconic B-listed building, which dates back to 1903, was most recently home to the museum before it relocated to the town hall in 2011.
However, Renfrewshire Council said it has not attracted any development interest since then and its condition has worsened with time.
Councillor Jamie McGuire, Labour representative for Renfrew North and Braehead, said it was the right decision to progress its demolition.
Elected members have been told a dangerous building notice has been served, with the local authority instructed to either knock it down or make it safe by Friday, May 31.
The council considers demolition the most appropriate course of action.
Councillor McGuire said: “I think the council has had to take action on it. It’s certainly dangerous.
“There was a big crack going through it. I’ve raised concerns that I didn’t think the building was safe several times.
“It should have been acted on many years ago because this was obviously a historic institution. It was part of the fabric of Renfrew.
“But it’s not safe, so they’re doing the right thing in taking it down. However, it’s appalling that it has fallen into this state of disrepair.”
The council said it was “saddened” to lose the building but added that public safety must be prioritised as part of its decision-making.
A spokesperson explained: “Structural issues have been identified within the Brown Institute that mean demolition must be carried out to ensure public safety.
“Despite regular monitoring, recent stabilising works and past marketing of the property, the building has not attracted any development interest since the museum moved to Renfrew Town Hall in 2011 and the condition of the building has worsened with time. We are saddened to lose this building as the council work hard to maintain and restore all of our built heritage, but public safety must be at the forefront of decision-making.”
It should have been acted on many years ago...