Plans to create a “high quality” electric vehicle charging hub on “derelict” land in Paisley have been submitted to Renfrewshire Council.

Allego wants to develop the vacant site – once home to the Traveller’s Rest pub – in Wallneuk Road into a facility with six units for 12 vehicles.

The company’s proposal includes the installation of three overhead canopies and an electrical substation, as well as associated resurfacing and landscaping.

(Image: Google) Mitie, the agent working on Allego’s behalf, outlined the thinking behind the planned project in a supporting statement with the application.

It said: “This proposed development subject of this application supports the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging provision in the town of Paisley and the wider Renfrewshire area.

“The development will provide a high quality and fully accessible electric vehicle charging hub for 12 vehicles, thereby helping to facilitate the change towards a more sustainable transport system.

“This statement has assessed the development against both national and local planning policies and demonstrates that the proposal is fully in compliance with the development plan whilst also supporting the government’s net zero goals by increasing the provision of reliable EV charging across the country.

“The proposal will also result in a high-quality redevelopment of this long-term vacant and derelict site which will not only provide essential local infrastructure, but will also improve the character, appearance and amenity of the street scene and surrounding neighbourhood.”

The plot is located in an area which is mainly commercial in character, with a Tim Hortons, Lidl and The Range all in the immediate vicinity.

Mitie explained the development would not result in an “unacceptable increase” in traffic levels in the area.

The statement continued: “The layout of the proposal has been carefully designed to allow sufficient space for vehicles entering and leaving the EV charging hub therefore avoiding any unacceptable traffic congestion issues affecting the public highway network.

“Overall, it is considered that the development complies with the relevant development plan policies, and it is respectfully requested that planning permission is granted.”

A decision will be made on the application for planning permission at a later date.