Housebuilders have outlined a blueprint for 600 new homes on surplus land at Dykebar Hospital.

CALA, Barratt and Bellway Homes are consulting with the public on proposals which could eventually see the arrival of a new development in Paisley, known as Thornly Park Village.

A range of housing would be built, from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom family homes, as the consortium looks to create a new community.

The developers have received fervent opposition in their plans from Paisley Southeast councillor Paul Mack, who has vowed to prevent residential property being built on the woodlands between Dykebar and Thornly Park.

However, the housebuilders are appealing to those who support the project to make their voices heard, as they emphasise the need for new homes in Paisley.

Andrew Duncan, land director at CALA Homes West and spokesman for the developers said: “We know from speaking to the residents of Paisley that it is a great place to live and we want our development to play a major role in the town’s ongoing regeneration and growth.

“Due to Paisley’s popularity, new homes are needed – not only for the current residents but for people who are attracted to live here for its location and sense of community.

“The council has recognised the need for new homes and this site has been allocated by them, as a preferred location for around 600 homes, as part of the council’s emerging local development plan.”

As part of the plans, approximately 40 per cent of the 93-acre site would be retained as recreational and open space.

This would include a central meadow, playgrounds, a football kickabout area and mature woodland through which new routes will be provided for residents.

Footpaths would connect Thornly Park Village to the town centre, the surrounding areas countryside.

Only ground surplus to the current operational needs of Dykebar Hospital would be developed, meaning there would continue to be hospital facilities.

The money raised from the sale would be reinvested in the NHS.

Tom Steele, director of Estates and Facilities at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: “It is our responsibility to ensure the delivery of a long-term viable use for the surplus land at Dykebar and the proposed development by this consortium of well-respected housebuilders offers a solution that addresses Paisley’s housing shortage with a wide range of good quality accommodation whilst retaining and improving the attractive woodland setting of the site.”

The developers believe their plans support the council’s regeneration in Paisley by contributing around £160 million to the economy and supporting 385 jobs a year during construction.

A drop-in consultation event is being held on Tuesday at Hunterhill Community Centre from 2pm to 7pm, where members of the public can meet the developers and discuss the plans.