A petition has been launched to save the historical Territorial Army Halls building on Paisley’s High Street from being demolished. The building, a significant part of Paisley’s heritage, was severely damaged by fire in March 2020, leaving only the facade intact. The JR Group has applied to Renfrewshire Council for permission to demolish the remaining section of the B-listed building, sparking serious concerns among campaigners and the community.
Paisley West and Central Community Council expressed worries about losing another iconic piece of the town’s heritage. The building, designed by William Kerr in 1897, sits between Coats Memorial Church and Paisley Museum. After serving as a Territorial Army facility until 1996, the building was later repurposed as a nightclub before plans to convert it into student flats were approved in 2020. However, a fire halted the redevelopment, and the building has remained untouched since then.
Former conservation officer Duncan MacIntosh initiated the online petition to urge councillors to reject the demolition plan, garnering over 800 signatures. The petition highlights the building’s importance to Paisley’s streetscape and calls for its preservation to maintain the town’s historic character. Renfrewshire Council confirmed that the application for demolition is under review, inviting public input through their planning portal.
The campaign to save the Territorial Army Halls building reflects the community’s commitment to preserving Paisley’s rich heritage amidst ongoing development projects. The building’s unique architectural significance and its place in the town’s history make it a symbol worth safeguarding for future generations. Through collective action and advocacy, residents and heritage enthusiasts aim to protect this historical landmark from disappearing forever.