New proposals for the Slaemuir area of Port Glasgow, including plans to build 108 new homes, have been unveiled by River Clyde Homes.

The plans come after residents of the 13 maisonette blocks managed by River Clyde Homes were given the option of continued maintenance and repair or their homes; full refurbishment of the blocks; or building new homes for residents and demolishing of the existing blocks.

Owners and tenants voted overwhelmingly in favour of the demolition and new build option and River Clyde Homes has now lodged plans with Inverclyde Council to begin building work.

Stage one of the development will see 36 new homes built using the new River Clyde Homes model which is designed to provide safe, comfortable homes to the highest standard possible.

“We plan to take a phased approach to this project,” explained Gary Wilson, director of property and business development. “By building on vacant land within the Slaemuir estate first we will have brand new homes available for existing block residents to move into before we demolish the first block. We will then continue the cycle, building on the cleared site to provide new homes for residents until 10 of the low-rise blocks are replaced.”

Slaemuir was built in the late 60s / early 70s in an attempt to alleviate overcrowding in Port Glasgow and the estate remains popular with residents. The new builds will include a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroomed houses to cater for the varied needs of the residents.

Current resident Mary Ramos said: “We have great neighbours, everyone is really friendly and it’s a lovely location.

“I’ve been to a few of the meetings about River Clyde Homes’ plans and, from what I have heard, I definitely think it’s a good idea. My son is in a wheelchair and we live in one of the blocks that will be demolished. Moving to a new build house which is specially set up for people with disabilities will make a big difference to the quality of life for both my son and me.”

Alongside plans to demolish 10 maisonette blocks and build 108 new homes, the proposals include the potential reconfiguration and refurbishment of the three remaining blocks to provide a further 54 homes, bringing bring River Clyde Homes’ total investment in the Slaemuir estate project to over £14m.

The plans also reflect the importance of high quality green space to peoples’ health and wellbeing. Alongside maintaining two existing mature trees, the proposal includes plans for green spaces and new trees which will enhance both enhance the environment and form part of a Sustainable Urban Drainage Strategy.

The proposals for Slaemuir are part of River Clyde Homes’ plans to build 750 new homes in Inverclyde over the next five years.