DEVELOPERS who are set to build new homes in Houston have vowed to respect rural life after its plans attracted controversy.

CALA Homes and Acorn Property Group are preparing to start work on 57 houses on land near B-listed Woodend House after an application was approved in May.

The proposals for a selection of two, four and five-bedroom properties attracted 60 objections, including one from Houston Community Council, as residents highlighted concerns about road congestion, capacity in schools and the site being classified as greenbelt.

The area is designated greenbelt in the current Local Development Plan (LDP) but has been earmarked for housing in the proposed LDP, which Renfrewshire Council intends to formally adopt in the near future.

But Carolynne Penman, development manager at CALA, insists the firm fully intends to protect the site’s unique features.

“Houston is a beautiful village and extremely popular,” she added. “We completely understand why the residents are so protective of the area.

“This is a long-term change to the village and we’re aware of that. It’s a privilege we get to develop houses and we do need to be respectful.

“The site is unique, with a lot of special features. The fact it’s close to Woodend House and the mature trees, for example.

“Making sure these characteristics are maintained is something we want to be careful about.”

CALA has agreed to develop several footpaths on the site, including one in Houston Road, as well as cycle lanes and a pedestrian crossing with an island on the B790.

Ms Penman said she hopes these plans will help the homes fit in with the surroundings, while also supporting pedestrians and cyclists.

Work on the development is due to start early next year, with the aim of getting the first residents on site in late 2022 to early 2023, but it is expected to take three to four years to be fully completed.