Phoenix plans halted

Eitan Grant - Eitan Grant • Published 1 Apr 2009 12:30

A MAJOR £100 million building project with the potential for 1000 jobs is hanging in the balance after its developer went bust.

The bid to regenerate a former car factory site in Linwood was halted when developer Mountgrange Capital went into administration last week.

But planning chiefs continue to be upbeat about the scheme"s prospects despite the huge set back.

Council bosses have spoken to senior management at the firm and say they are still hopeful the development can go ahead.

A Renfrewshire Council spokesperson said: 'Our planning officials have spoken with representatives of the original developer.

'We"ve been advised that they are exploring other options to take the Linwood proposal forward.

'Of course we are concerned at the uncertainty over a development which would have major economic and employment benefits for Renfrewshire as a whole.

'However, we are encouraged that there are active efforts already under way to secure the project and we also note the public commitment that there is still every intention to invest in the Phoenix Park scheme in Linwood.'

The planned development will provide a huge boost to the local economy providing mixed industrial, office, and residential units.

Outline planing permission for the site has been lodged with Renfrewshire Council"s planning and the overall value of investment at the Linwood site is £100 million.

Jobs created as a result include construction and employment in the various businesses which would move in is estimated to be around 1000.

The site is earmarked for general industrial use and storage distribution as well as 300 homes in a 30-acre residential development and 14,000 square metres of office space.

The plans also include investment in new infrastructure, including major roadworks.

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This article appeared in The Gazette 01 Apr 09

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