DEREK Mackay has called for a vacant police station to be rejuvenated following claims it has been “left to rot”.

The Renfrewshire North and West SNP candidate has called for the council to put the old Renfrew police station and car park back into public use.

It was closed on the opening of the new Renfrew police office near Station Road.

However, the old Inchinnan Road building, which belongs to Renfrew Common Good Fund overseen by the council, has been left vacant and victim to vandalism.

Mr Mackay said: “This is a great asset for Renfrew but has been left to rot by Labour-led Renfrewshire Council.

“I’m deeply disappointed that the council has not been more proactive in protecting and promoting this historic Renfrew building.

“If re-elected I would redouble my efforts to bring the building back into public use so that this beautiful building can be enjoyed by the people of Renfrewshire.

“I’ve a strong track record on rejuvenating historic buildings and would use community empowerment legislation and funds if necessary.”

However, Renfrew North councillor Bill Brown said that the delay is due to an ongoing issue with Police Scotland who have failed to reach agreement with the council over a settlement.

He said: “We would be failing in our duty to the Renfrew Common Good Fund to accept anything less than a fair and reasonable settlement. “That is what we have presented to Police Scotland, who occupied the building since its construction.

“Last year Mr Mackay was asked through the press to use his influence to ensure Police Scotland resolved the issue. Little changed. Now, months later and with an election in the air Mr Mackay chooses to raise the issue again.”