PLANS to extend a storage facility for caravans and campervans in Renfrew have been given the green light by Renfrewshire Council.

The brownfield site, which had previously lain vacant, is located just off West Lodge Road – not far from the town’s Blythswood Retail Park.

Ewan Mackay, who is also the owner of Mac Storage in nearby Argyll Avenue, has landed planning permission for the application, subject to conditions.

The extent of the works was detailed in a planning statement by agent company North Planning Development which formed part of the submitted documents.

It said: “Planning permission is sought for the formation of a Class 6 storage facility as an extension to the existing equivalent facility on the land immediately to the north, with the expectation being that it will predominantly be used for storage of caravans, campervans and similar.

“The built works will simply comprise erection of fencing and vehicle and pedestrian access will be taken via the existing gates that are in place to serve the existing northern site and Class 6 use.”

The local authority said two objections were received in response to the plans, covering issues such as the impact on amenity to nearby residential properties and potential noise.

However, one representation was also made in favour of the development, which noted the benefit of bringing the plot back into use. It said: “As a resident and business owner I’m glad to see the land being tidied up and utilised to the benefit of the local community and not an area for fly-tipping.”

In its report of handling, the council said: “The site was formerly used as an area of overspill car parking for the nearby retail park but is currently unmaintained and degrades the visual amenity of the surrounding area.

“The retail park has several empty units and has its own parking and no need for additional parking. As such, the overspill parking is now redundant and has been closed off to vehicles.

“It is therefore not considered that the proposed use would have a detrimental impact on the operation of the retail park.

“The nature of the proposal means it would not have a negative impact on the Normandy Hotel or the nearby football club.

“The row of mature trees that runs along the western site boundary would help screen the development from the hotel.”

In its official decision notice issued last month, the council confirmed the proposal was in line with the provisions of the development plan.