Demolition works in the Tannahill area of Ferguslie Park are edging closer – progress which has been welcomed by a veteran Paisley politician.

An update has been provided on a number of projects that are set to take place ahead of the appointment of a contractor for the planned bulldozing.

Civil engineering works are being carried out in advance of Scottish Power and Scottish Gas mains disconnections, which are both scheduled to begin this month.

Councillor Kenny MacLaren, an SNP representative for Paisley Northwest, expressed his relief as headway is made in an area that has been plagued by antisocial behaviour in recent times.

He said: “I am glad that the council is moving forward with the demolition of the vacant properties in the Tannahill area.

“Too often there has been problems with fire-raising in this area and it’s clear current security measures simply aren’t good enough.

“Hopefully the relevant contracts can be signed off quickly and the demolition work can take place as soon as possible.”

An email, sent to elected members by Renfrewshire Council’s housing regeneration manager on Thursday, set out the relevant timelines for the works.

It explained: “Morrison Utilities are currently on site carrying out civil engineering works in advance of Scottish Power mains disconnections commencing on Monday, May 13, for six to eight weeks.

“Similarly, Scottish Gas mains disconnections are scheduled to commence the following week, on May 20, again for six to eight weeks.

“A number of tenders were received at the closing date, and these are currently going through a technical review process before being presented to the finance board on June 13.

“Should an appointment be approved at this time, we are looking at a site start mid-July as previously stated.

“In the meantime, we continue to check and secure the vacant properties within this area regularly and this will continue until the blocks are handed over to an appointed demolition contractor.”