Industrial unit plan at former home of Paisley mill approved by Renfrewshire Council

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Plans to build industrial units on land where an important part of Paisley's textile weaving heritage once stood have been approved by Renfrewshire Council.

Vinemeadow has been granted planning permission, subject to conditions, for the development – consisting of 15 units for business or storage use – at the former home of Blackhall Mill, which was built in the 19th century and demolished in 2019.

Documents submitted in support of the proposals last year said residential use was explored for the site on the corner of Blackhall Lane and Blackhall Street but considered "non-viable" due to the cost of redevelopment.

A statement said: "It is well known historically that this site has been occupied by a former mill and various other industrial processes for many years.

"The owners of the site, who demolished the existing mill which was in a very decrepit state and nearing collapse, have explored extensively the potential for other uses including some residential uses but due to the cost of redevelopment and the market viability of what is after all a fairly difficult site, it was proved that such use was non-viable.

"There is however a healthy demand for small, high quality, efficient, industrial units, often by small start-up businesses, and the attached scheme illustrates new small units, which are adequately served and comply with the flood criteria evidenced by proximity to the White Cart River.

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"The developers have successfully completed small unit schemes elsewhere that have proven to be very successful and it is felt that this site, which has been shown from discussions with local agents, could work extremely well.

"The area is in considerable need of upgrading by development that respects the landscape and tree belt frontage to the River Cart and yet provides adequate main road access into the site."

In its official decision notice last month, the council explained while the proposal did not "fully accord" with the provisions of the development plan, other material considerations carried "sufficient weight" to grant permission.

Built in 1848 for D Speirs and Son, Blackhall Mill’s raw silk was made into threads. However, as the availability of the material dwindled, weavers concentrated on cotton – a decision which would put Paisley on the international stage for a hundred years.

The site was converted into a paper mill in the late 19th century, before becoming offices near the end of its life. It had lain derelict for years and was targeted by vandals, leaving it in a dilapidated condition.

Campaigners had hoped to see the mill restored before it was knocked down and demolition consent was initially refused by the planning board in 2015. However, the council's decision was overturned on appeal to the Scottish Government in 2016.

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