Council to discuss final plans for 150 new homes in Paisley

Final plans to transform the West End of Paisley with up to 150 new homes are to be considered by councillors today.Designed by Renfrewshire Council and housing association partner Sanctuary Scotland, the finalised ‘masterplan’ follows public consultation with residents in the summer, which signalled strong support for the proposals. In addition, more than 80% of respondents backed moves to address the high levels of vacant properties and strengthen the close connections with the Town Centre.Up to £12 million has been earmarked for the project. If approved, Sanctuary Scotland would start work next year on a phased development which involves demolition of existing low demand tenement flats and commercial ground floor premises on the east side of Well Street, Clavering Street East and Underwood Lane.Vacant land formerly used as the University of the West of Scotland Halls of Residence would be cleared and community growing areas on Sutherland Street would be relocated to accommodate the new development.The council tenants affected by the scheme would be offered suitable alternative accommodation, with a range of options available including new housing for social rent being developed by Sanctuary Scotland at the former Co-Op site on nearby Wellmeadow Street. The remaining properties would be purchased by Sanctuary Scotland, with owners offered options including exchanging their property or becoming a council or Sanctuary tenant.