Plans to demolish 'old Presto'are a step closer

Plans to flatten a former supermarket in Johnstone have taken a step forward after it was confirmed prior approval is not required for the project.

- JACK THOMSON, LOCAL DEMOCRACY REPORTER

Renfrewshire Council has been told its method of demolition for the building in Houstoun Court, referred to as the old Presto by some, and site restoration is considered “acceptable”.

The decision will facilitate progress on a job that forms part of a regeneration initiative to provide a green link between the two civic squares in the town centre.

In its assessment of the proposal, the planning department said: “The building will be demolished using machinery. This includes removal of the roof, walls, ground floor slabs and foundations.

“Using machinery is considered appropriate given the site’s proximity to existing properties.

“The method of site restoration after the demolition is also acceptable, with the site being graded, cleared and the existing underslab hardcore rolled.