A LARGE number of unpopular tenements in Johnstone are facing demolition.

A report before councillors says many of the flats in Johnstone Castle are thought to have reached the end of their useful life.

Renfrewshire Council wants to demolish odd numbered properties between 67 and 109 and 155 to 157 Elm Drive, odd number tenements from 1-13 Maple Drive, even number properties from 18 to 22 Tower Road, 45 Sycamore Avenue and even numbers from 2 to 26 Cedar Avenue.

It also plans to flatten the lock-ups at Elm Drive/Spruce Avenue and at Maple Drive.

Tommy Williams, convener of the council's housing and community safety policy board, said: "There is a severe lack of demand for tenement properties in Johnstone Castle and as a result there are a high percentage of empty flats and often a high turnover of those which are left.

"In addition, these tenement buildings are reaching the end of their lifespan with an estimated £2.5million of works required to upgrade them over the next five to 10 years.

"Given this significant cost and the fact there is such low demand for long-term housing of this type in the area, it makes sense to look at alternative options that would meet the strong demand for terraced and semi-detached properties.

"We are inviting everyone living at these addresses to share their views on these proposals with the council."

The council is planning to hold two drop-in sessions in Johnstone Castle community centre tomorrow between 1pm and 4pm and on Wednesday from 3.30pm until 6.30pm.

Residents in the buildings due to be demolished are invited to drop in and speak to housing services staff.

Council officers are also keen to speak to tenants and residents of the tenement flats at 21 to 31 Pine Crescent and 47 to 49 Sycamore Avenue.

These properties are not included in the demolition plans but the officers are keen to hear the views of tenants and residents.

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk