Anniesland protesters march against plans for drug and booze rehab centre

Armed with signs and banners, outraged residents marched along Great Western Road against to the centre which will take over the former Munro Court care home later this summer.

Livid homeowners say the sale of the site was “underhanded” and they blasted rehab bosses Phoenix Futures for a “lack of consultation” with the public.

Billy McAllister, chairman of the North west Glasgow community alliance, told the crowd: “We’re angry that there was no consultation and we demand now that there is one. People power will prevail.”

The calls for an explanation was backed by the area’s councillors Paul Carey, Malcolm Balfour and Anne McTaggart.

Baillie Balfour told the Evening Times: “This demonstration shows the anger and fear of local residents to this unit being foisted upon the area without any consultation whatsoever.

“No-one from the new owners had spoken to anybody prior to buying this former care home.

“Locals are told that this is just one kind of care home being changed to another but in their opinion that is not the case.”

While Cllr Carey added: “It was a fantastic turnout by the community.

“No-one is against this service but the location is wrong. This location in Munro Court is right in the centre of an elderly retirement complex.”

“After two public meetings and a demonstration, the community sent a clear message to Phoenix Future to think again.”

However, Phoenix insist the sale was carried out “in compliance with all legal requirements”.

A spokesman added: “We recognise that some of our neighbours are worried. We have made a start, and we will continue to work hard to tackle those concerns.

“We are committed to being good neighbours and we are confident that we will come to be seen as a valuable part of the Anniesland community.”

“Phoenix Futures has been providing care home services for 50 years, with a long and successful track record of providing very safe, effective and caring services in residential settings.”