Owners of Paisley’s Territorial Army Halls served with enforcement notice

Owners of the iconic Territorial Army Halls in Paisley have been served with an enforcement notice by Renfrewshire Council after the removal of supporting scaffolding from the listed building. The JR Group, which is looking to obtain planning permission to demolish the fire-damaged structure, has been issued a stop notice, demanding the reinstatement of retaining structures to preserve the integrity of the B-listed property.

The building, dating back to 1897 and ravaged by a fire in March 2020, now stands as a gutted shell with only its facade remaining. Concerns have arisen over potential further damage following the removal of scaffolding, prompting the council to take legal action. The Paisley West and Central Community Council has expressed support for efforts to safeguard what remains of the historic TA Halls.

Community chairperson John Wilby highlighted the building’s significance in Paisley’s heritage and streetscape, stressing the importance of preserving such landmarks. The community council has lodged objections to the demolition application and commended Renfrewshire Council for issuing the enforcement notices to the JR Group. Calls have been made for public support through an online petition urging the council to reject the demolition plans.

Originally designed by William Kerr, the TA Halls have stood as a familiar landmark in Paisley town centre, alongside notable structures like Coats Memorial Church and Paisley Museum. Despite prior approval for student accommodation conversion, subsequent fire damage halted any development on the site. Local representatives, including Neil Bibby MSP, have called for a thorough consultation process before any irreversible actions are taken.

Efforts by campaigners, including an online petition and support from local councillors, aim to raise awareness of the historical and cultural significance of the TA Halls and challenge developers to reconsider their plans. Renfrewshire Council has confirmed ongoing discussions with the JR Group regarding the future of the site, with decisions pending on the listed building application for demolition.

As stakeholders navigate the complexities of balancing redevelopment interests with heritage preservation, the fate of the TA Halls remains uncertain. The community’s vibrant advocacy for heritage conservation underscores the importance of valuing and protecting historical landmarks for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

**Insights and Summary:**
The article highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding the preservation and potential demolition of the Territorial Army Halls in Paisley. It showcases the community’s dedication to safeguarding historical buildings and the challenges faced in balancing development plans with heritage conservation efforts. The article underscores the importance of public engagement and advocacy in influencing decisions that impact the cultural fabric of a region. It also sheds light on the complexities of redevelopment projects involving historical sites and the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making processes.