John Taylor – Architect’s request for permission, on behalf of G64 Trading, has been approved, subject to conditions, and will see the dwellings built across the upper floors of the landmark sandstone property.
The ground floor - a former performing arts space for West College Scotland - will be converted for Class 4 business use.
A planning statement submitted with the application read: “The proposal is primarily to divide the building into eight flats across first, second and attic floors.
“The flats shall be a mixture of two and three-bedroom dwellings, enjoying the unique spaces available throughout the building.
“The conversion of the building…requires installation of fire sprinkler system throughout, which can be achieved by installing ‘from above’ without disturbing any existing cornicing or other ceiling features.
“Due to the proposed change of use and resulting change in occupancy profile, the opportunity arises to remove the unsightly steel escape stairs from the rear elevations (some steel stairs serve adjacent buildings and will therefore remain).
“Removal of steel escape stairs will immediately improve the overall aesthetic of the rear roof access area. This in turn presents a new opportunity for a private amenity space (drying area, shared space) for the proposed flats.”
The statement added: “It is proposed that the ground floor areas shall be converted to Class 4 business use. This shall be accessed by a separate, improved entrance area on New Street.
“This will include a widened door, installation of a platform lift, formation of new shared kitchen and WC facilities and a shared access corridor.”
“The proposal also complies with the broad aims of the Paisley West and Central Local Place Plan in respect of preserving and protecting built heritage in the area.”
Photo credit: Google Maps