600 new homes are being planned for derelict Paisley hospital

Ambitious new plans could see more than 600 homes built on the grounds of a Paisley hospital.NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is set to sell off the land surrounding Dykebar Hospital in a move that could see hundreds of new houses put up in the town’s east end.The health board announced it’s working with a property consultancy firm Montagu Evens, to market the surplus site and hope to attract interest from major developers.An assessment of the area has already been carried out which revealed it could accommodate more than 600 residential units.Any money raised form the sale would be re-invested into patient care and health board chiefs say the plans would also benefit the wider community through construction jobs and other economic benefits.The Dykebar Hospital clinical and administrative functions which currently operate from the site will be retained by NHSGGC.Campaigners have previously objected to building developments in the area on the grounds that it will increase traffic and damage the environment.A buyer would require planning permission before any work could start, with any proposals likely to go before a full meeting of Renfrewshire Council for approval.The health board say it has already carried out traffic impact, drainage, and ground conditions investigations.Dykebar Hospital, opened in 1909, treats patients with mental health issues.