Demolition job begins to make way for new homes

Vacant properties in Cedar Avenue, Tower Road and Elm Drive are being knocked down to make space for a development of two and three-bedroom homes, own-door flats and specially-designed bungalows for tenants with mobility issues.

There will also be four semi-detached homes with four bedrooms.

Work is already under way to tear down properties in Elm Drive, which were built in 1960, with many former residents gathering to say ‘goodbye.’

Nicola Stevenson, who lived in the flats with her daughter for 11 years, is being considered for one of the new-build homes.

She said: “I’ve seen the plans and I like the new houses. We’re looking forward to getting our own front door for the first time ever.”

Margaret Mackay, who lived at number 89 for more than half a century, was also on hand to watch the next phase of regeneration take place.

She said: “When we moved in it was so new there wasn’t even a pavement.

“There is a great community spirit in Johnstone Castle and I am happy to be staying in the area. It’s time for the flats to be replaced by something new.”

Construction work on the new housing is expected to start next month and will be carried out by ENGIE Regeneration Limited.

The first completions are due next spring, with the construction costs of almost £13million being funded from Renfrewshire Council’s housing investment programme and a Scottish Government grant.

Councillor Marie McGurk, convener of Renfrewshire’s communities, housing and planning policy board, said: “The regeneration work under way at Johnstone Castle demonstrates our commitment to providing affordable, energy-efficient social housing that will meet the needs of local people as well as improve their quality of life and community.

“It’s been key to have the community on board.”

Tenants who moved out of the flats to allow the regeneration work to go ahead and wish to be considered for one of the new homes can contact council staff on 0141 618 2581.