Historic Paisley Tenements Undergo £6.4m Transformation
Historic tenement properties in Paisley are undergoing a significant transformation through a £6.4 million refurbishment project aimed at enhancing housing options in the town centre. Paisley Housing Association (PHA), in collaboration with Renfrewshire Council and with financial support from the Scottish Government, is embarking on the redevelopment of the empty tenement properties at 33 Causeyside Street and 3–9 Orchard Street in Paisley.
This project, set to deliver 50 refurbished flats, seeks to address the housing crisis while also ensuring the preservation of longstanding local businesses. Procast Group has been tasked with overseeing the project, which involves initial site clearances followed by retrofitting the properties. The refurbishment works will include installing new windows, doors, kitchens, and bathrooms. External enhancements such as stone repairs, re-roofing, new close doors, and landscaped back courts are also part of the plan. The entire scheme is anticipated to take two years to complete.
Situated at the heart of the town, these homes and businesses are poised to receive a complete overhaul by Procast’s expert team, providing essential modern housing options for the area. The project costs will be covered by PHA and bolstered by £4.8 million from the Scottish Government’s affordable housing supply programme, along with £500,000 from the council’s private sector housing grant.
Scottish Government housing minister Paul McLennan expressed his support, emphasizing the importance of the refurbishment works in safeguarding the historic buildings and delivering 50 high-quality social rented flats in Paisley town centre. Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s communities and housing policy board, highlighted the significance of the project in creating affordable homes while maintaining the unique charm of the historic tenements.
Fiona McTaggart, CEO of PHA, expressed excitement about leading the revitalisation of Paisley’s historic tenements, emphasizing the team’s expertise in preserving historic architecture while providing much-needed affordable housing. Derek Innes, owner and managing director of Procast Group, shared his enthusiasm for the project, underscoring the company’s commitment to breathing new life into old housing stock.
The collaborative efforts of Paisley Housing Association, Renfrewshire Council, and the Scottish Government underscore a shared vision for the future of Paisley’s community and local economy. The transformation of these buildings is not only about creating homes but also about preserving the town’s rich heritage while meeting the evolving needs of its residents.
In conclusion, the refurbishment of historic tenements in Paisley represents a significant investment in both housing and heritage, reflecting a commitment to revitalising the town centre while honouring its past. This project serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and vision in creating a sustainable future for Paisley and its residents.