Plans for more than 60 affordable homes on the “eyesore” site of a former social club in Linwood have been approved.

McTaggart Construction has landed the green light to build on land, which used to surround St Brendan’s Social and Recreation Club, in Stirling Drive.

The development will consist of 64 residential units, including a mix of semi-detached and terraced housing, cottage flats and a bungalow, managed by a registered social landlord (RSL).

The company’s request for planning permission was granted at Renfrewshire Council’s recent planning and climate change policy board.

The Gazette:

Councillor Alison Ann-Dowling, who represents Linwood, said she was “very pleased” to see the application brought forward.

She added: “It’s very welcome that we’re getting a quality, high-concentration build of homes available for social rent through one of the RSLs.

“I think that’s absolutely necessary in the housing mix within Renfrewshire, so I do welcome that.

“I also welcome the proposed housing mix. It’s good to see that smaller properties are included.

“I don’t think we’re short of four, five, six-bedroom properties across Renfrewshire.

“What we need are the smaller properties to give us more accessible housing for people who need the smaller footprint. I think all of that is very good.

“Locally, I have been asked as the ward councillor in Linwood for many years what is happening with that site because, as it is at the moment, it’s an absolute eyesore.”

According to a report to the board, the applicant has agreed to contribute towards the creation of a play area on land to the north of Gilmartin Road.

Councillor Jim Paterson, board convener, said: “I’m really pleased to hear they’re going to make a significant financial contribution to a new play area in Linwood.

“I know sites have been identified, but I’d hope there would be a bit of community engagement, with the community council and maybe the local primary schools.”