The Easdale brothers want to bring derelict land 'back to life' with plans to build more than 60 homes.

Balrossie, in the village of Kilmacolm in Renfrewshire, was originally built in 1899 by the Sailor’s Orphans Society of Scotland.

The 30.6-acre site has lain empty since 2004 and has now been purchased by the McGill's bosses for an undisclosed sum. 

It has consent from Inverclyde Council for 64 residential units with a development value of more than £20 million once construction is completed.

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This purchase adds to Sandy and James Easdale's growing portfolio of residential and commercial developments in Scotland.

These include 850 homes being built on a 130-acre site at the former Tullis Russell paper mill in Glenrothes and the rejuvenation of the 70-acre former IBM site in Greenock, with planning consent in place for 450 homes.

Work is also underway at the former St Michael’s Primary School site in Dumbarton, with 81 new homes under construction.

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Sandy Easdale said: “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to take forward the Balrossie site and bring it back to life. Our vision is to create a high-quality residential community that respects the heritage of the site while providing much-needed housing for the area.

"This is a long-term project that will revitalise the site and create lasting value for the community.

“Kilmacolm is known for its scenic beauty and strong sense of community and by creating new housing, we aim to enhance what is already a fantastic place to live.

“We take pride in regenerating sites across Scotland and Balrossie is a perfect example of a place that can add real value to Kilmacolm with the right vision.

"We are committed to delivering homes that are built to the highest standards, ensuring that they complement the unique character of the village.

"The acquisition represents another key milestone in our ongoing investment and growth strategy across Scotland.

"We are committed to creating developments that not only provide a new future for landmark sites but also drive forward economic and social regeneration.”

Alan Stewart at Breck Property Consultants acted on behalf of the purchaser, with Balrossie marketed for the vendor by Knight Frank.