CAMPAIGNERS hope to put the brakes on controversial plans to transform one of Johnstone’s busiest car parks into a retail development.

Arianna Properties Ltd wants to build a restaurant, two takeaways and a shop at the car park in Collier Street.

However, opponents insist the new businesses should be based in the town’s High Street instead.

Ron Ewing, chairman of Johnstone Community Council, said: “The empty shops should be filled up first before thinking about creating something new.

“It is already a struggle to get a parking spot in the town centre, so removing a well-used parking area will only negatively impact the area even further.

“There are so many empty shops already so we should use what is on the High Street already.

“However, there are issues as rates have been increased on the High Street.

“There was even talks of the Accord Hospice charity shop having to close at one point due to the costs - it is a disgrace.

“I don’t think nearby shopkeepers will be happy about these new proposals either as it is too much competition.”

Allan Henderson, chairman of the Johnstone Business Consortium, added: “We don’t need more takeaways and a restaurant - there are already plenty nearby, so this will do nothing to encourage people into the town centre.

“We want to attract people into the town with different types of shops, rather than more of the same thing.”

A spokesman for Arianna Properties Ltd said the planning application is for a renewal of “an already-existing consent going back four years or more.”

He added: “We are currently seeking occupiers.”

A spokeswoman for Renfrewshire Council said: “A planning application for the car park south of the Black Cart Water is currently going through the relevant planning process, in line with the statutory requirements.

“The application will then be considered by officers and a decision will be issued in due course.”