Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, has warned that a potential ‘high-priced’ housing development could be built on the remains of a site of historical interest.
Cala Homes have submitted a planning application for 195 houses on the former green belt area at NorthBar in Erskine/Inchinnan.
However, concerns have been raised locally that the development is contrary to the Council’s own Local Plan.
Mr Newlands has submitted a formal objection to the development, outlining a series of technical faults with the proposal and highlighting that if granted, the development would be built on the site of the Battle of Renfrew.
In 1164, Somerled, King of the Isles, alongside an army of 15,000 fought and battled against a small army loyal to King Malcolm IV of Scotland, just outside the town of Renfrew.
The small army were able to defeat Somerled — signalling a significant moment in Scotland’s history, and which prevented Renfrew and Glasgow from being ruled over by those loyal to Somerled.
Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, said: “I am deeply concerned that this housing development may be built on the site of the Battle of Renfrew. In my maiden speech to Parliament I spoke of how Somerled – the King of the Isles – led an army 15,000 strong to defeat against King Malcolm IV’s men in 1164. I have since called for formal recognition of the site and local school children to be made aware of this hugely significant local historical event. I am not sure that building 195 luxury 4/5 bed houses is the way to commemorate the battle.
“However, putting the Battle of Renfrew to one side there still exists a number of technical faults with this development and that’s why many local residents have expressed anger with this application.
“This development also doesn’t include any provision for affordable housing to be built.
I hope that Renfrewshire Council will take the concerns that have been submitted by myself and by the local community under serious consideration and act accordingly.