BOSSES at a Renfrewshire housing association have defended a controversial decision to close its office and move to a new base in another village.

Bridgewater Housing Association (BHA) has operated from Bridgewater Shopping Centre, in Erskine, for the past quarter of a century.

However, it will move to the India of Inchinnan building next month, as the current office is "no longer fit for purpose."

The decision has angered some tenants, who say BHA's switch to Inchinnan will not suit pensioners and the infirm.

They also say the decision has been presented as a 'fait accompli.'

One tenant told The Gazette: "The new offices are almost three miles from Erskine and are not located to best serve the needs of tenants and owners, especially the elderly and those without a car.

"Secondly, there was no consultation with tenants and owners or an opportunity to raise objections or discuss better alternatives.

"Tenant consultation is a requirement of the Scottish Housing Regulator.

"The current office in Bridgewater Place is in the heart of the community, is a convenient location and has served tenants and owners well over the years."

However, BHA insist the move is necessary, adding that it has been looking for new premises for the past decade.

Chief executive Andy Thomson said: "There was a consultation carried out during the Covid period and people were saying they were using the current office less and doing more of their business online or by telephone.

"The board, which includes tenants, then made the decision to move to new premises.

"The current office is no longer fit for purpose, requiring extensive improvements, and there are no other suitable office premises in Erskine.

"The move to Inchinnan works out financially better in the long-term for our tenants and owners.

"We will retain a community office in Erskine and tenants can also be visited in their homes."

Bosses have also stressed there is ample car parking at the art deco India of Inchinnan building, as well as a half-hourly bus service from Erskine.

Mr Thomson added: "We will be moving to Inchinnan for the foreseeable future but cannot rule out returning to Erskine at some point."