Fears raised over future of old Quarrelton school building

John Hood fears the old Quarrelton school building, in Beith Road, could fall into ruin if repair work is not carried out soon.

The site, which is located at the top of Linn Brae, is thought to have been built between 1825 and 1837 and was used up until 1877.

Councillor Hood, who represents Johnstone South and Elderslie, told The Gazette: "The council have said they don't require it anymore and it's just been left there.

"My big concern is that water is getting into the property and I understand the floors are rotten now, so something really needs to be done.

"I think it needs to be made wind and watertight until either planning is put in place for it or it is sold to somebody who will retain the building."

Councillor Hood is keen to see plans put in place to breathe new light into the site, which is next to Gordon Square.

He said: "There was a bit of interest in the building before Covid, so maybe a wee push in the right direction will help save it.

"It could be used by the Scouts or as offices, or even serve as a bigger space for Johnstone History Museum to use.

"It's important we preserve the building because it's part of the history of Johnstone.

"A lot of people also don't realise that the town has a third square and if the school building goes away, we may end up losing Gordon Square as well.

"We are already losing too many places like these now and as, far as I'm concerned, the history of these areas is dying."

A Renfrewshire Council spokesperson said: "This building is currently surplus to our requirements but we have continued to maintain it to ensure it remains wind and watertight. 

"Marketing will begin in the new year to find a new owner who could bring it back into use.

"We would also be happy to talk to any community group who would be interested in taking the building on via a community asset transfer."