A DECISION on plans for a block of eight flats in Renfrew has been delayed to allow a site visit to take place.

The proposed four-storey residential development has been earmarked for land on the corner of Fulbar Street and Blythswood Avenue.

Planners recommended an application for planning permission, brought forward by Brian Lees, be granted subject to conditions.

The plot is home to a building previously used as an administration and training centre for Ailsa Care Services.

A report to Tuesday’s planning and climate change policy board said it is now vacant and will be demolished if the plans are approved.

James Weir, a Renfrewshire Council planning officer, said: “This is planning application 23/0112 for a residential development comprising of eight flats within a four-storey building.

“The site is shown on the location plan within an established residential area, approximately 250 metres to the northwest of Renfrew town centre.

“It’s located on the corner plot at the junction of Fulbar Street and Blythswood Avenue.

“It’s currently occupied by the single-storey white building, which was previously used as an office but is now vacant.

“There’s a mix of two-storey properties in the area immediately surrounding the site.”

Letters of representation, which object to the proposed development, were received by the council.

Among the concerns stated were noise and disruption during construction, loss of sunlight and overshadowing, as well as privacy, and claims the height and scale of the building would be out of keeping with the surrounding area.

Councillor John Shaw, who represents Renfrew North and Braehead, asked for a site visit to take place – a request which was accepted by board convener Councillor Jim Paterson.

Councillor Shaw said: “I’ve got some concerns about how this all fits in with the local area and I think it would be helpful for the other members of the board to get out and see the area in question.

“I’ll save my discussion for after the site visit but, as I say, I do have some concerns and I think it would be helpful to get everybody out there to have a look at the size of the site and what they’re trying to do.”