By Jack Thomson

Copyright dailyrecord

Plans to convert a former community garden in Kilbarchan into a parking facility for a nearby garage have been refused by Renfrewshire Council. Kilbarchan Vehicle Services wanted to use the Cartside Terrace site, previously Gateway community garden, as parking for customer cars but has been unsuccessful in its application for planning permission. The Tandlehill Road business has to park vehicles in residential areas, according to a supporting statement, and identified this solution to ease pressure on the streets. The document, prepared by agent Craig Architecture, explained: “At present, Kilbarchan Vehicle Services have to park their customers’ cars in the adjacent residential areas. These areas include Tandlehill Road, Ladysmith Avenue and the car park off of Milliken Road. “On average they have around 20 cars parked around the local area every day and this has an impact on the surrounding residential areas which are already congested by residents’ vehicles and other traffic. “The proposed car parking area would alleviate some of the pressure on the residential streets caused by on-street parking.” While the application had the support of Kilbarchan Community Council, subject to conditions, it received four objections focusing on issues such as potential exacerbation of parking problems, impact on built heritage and road safety concerns. One resident said: “This proposal aims to alleviate the problems caused by the parking of approximately 20 cars. However, it would simply create a problem of a similar nature in another [area] by the movement of vehicles to Cartside Terrace. “Kilbarchan is considered a heritage village…the village retains much of its charm and historical character, with many buildings listed by Historic [Environment] Scotland as being of architectural or historical merit, being designated as an outstanding conservation area. “This development as you enter Kilbarchan would seriously diminish this significant acknowledgment for our village.” Historically, the land was home to a petrol station but is vacant after its most recent use as a community garden with plants in containers and raised beds. In its report of handling, the local authority said: “The creation of 1,100 square metres of commercial surface parking at the expense of a designated area of open space that sits in close proximity to residential properties cannot be considered compatible with the surrounding built environment or conducive to the creation of a pleasant place. “In addition, the parking would be located approximately 110 metres from Kilbarchan Vehicle Services’ existing premises so would be disconnected from the parent property. “The car park would, therefore, appear isolated and an incongruous addition to a residential street, with it not apparent that the parking is linked to a local business.” In its official decision notice, the council added the proposal was “contrary” to specific local and national planning policies. Don’t miss the latest Renfrewshire headlines – you can sign up to our free daily newsletter here