RESIDENTS and business owners in Paisley's West End have welcomed plans to regenerate the area.

A public consultation, which started in the summer, has shown strong support for the draft Paisley West End Regeneration Masterplan, which outlines proposals for around 150 private and social homes and the potential provision of new commerical units.

According to the proposals, low-demand tenement flats and commercial ground floor properties would be demolished on the east side of Well Street.

Demolition would also take place on vacant residential blocks in Clavering Street East.

Vacant land formerly used as the University of the West of Scotland Halls of Residence would be cleared and community growing areas in Sutherland Street would be relocated within the West End.

The feedback so far has shown more than 80 per cent of council tenants and residential property ownders win the Well Street area agree with the proposals.

The consultation has also shown the challenges facing the area, with high levels of vacant properties in a poor condition and issues including vandalism.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson, convener of the leadership board, said: “These proposals seek to deliver transformational change in the west end of Paisley.

"They have been developed in recognition of the importance of the area in the regeneration of Paisley town centre.

“I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to make their voice heard on the draft masterplan.

"We are continuing to consult with the public on these proposals and public consultation feedback so far has underlined how important the west end of Paisley is to the people who live and work there.

“Yes, the area has challenges, but we are determined to meet these head on and these proposals look to address low demand for existing housing and commercial premises and also bring surplus undeveloped land back into use."

Councillors will note the consultation findings in a report to the Leadership Board next week and will consider approving the next stage of the masterplan development which would see a finalised and fully costed plan brought forward to the next board meeting in December.

Officers are still keen to hear from people.

Call 0141 618 6003 if you would like to arrange to speak to the Council’s Planning and Housing team.