CONCERNS have been raised about Neilston’s ability to cope with a fresh influx of residents after plans for 137 new homes were approved.

Taylor Wimpey West Scotland has been given the green light by East Renfrewshire Council to build the houses on a 15-acre site at Neilston Road.

However, existing residents are worried that the village’s two schools and roads network won’t be able to cope with this latest expansion.

Some protestors have also said Neilston is “not a village anymore” as new homes eat into the land separating it from Barrhead.

A spokesman for Neilston Community Council claimed the development could lead to the destruction of a number of protected plant species and also raised concerns over traffic issues, describing the approved plans as “unsatisfactory.”

However, East Renfrewshire Council (ERC) has confirmed the site is designated as suitable for housing under the area’s Local Development Plan.

A spokesperson for ERC said: “The impact that any potential development may have on infrastructure and delivery of council services is fully considered during the planning process and this application was deemed appropriate.”

Developers have pledged to install a number of new trees to the east of the site and retain some of the greenbelt.

As part of the planning permission, an agreement was also reached with ERC to deliver further investment in local education and community facilities.

Stephen Andrew, technical director for Taylor Wimpey West Scotland, said: “As well as an impressive range of new homes, our development will provide a range of economic benefits for the Neilston area, which includes supporting over 160 jobs per year of construction, as well as the attraction of new customers to local businesses.

“We believe this development will be a great addition to the area and complements our other developments across the region.”

Construction work at the Neilston Road development is expected to start later this month.

Mr Andrew added: “Our development of new homes at Neilston offers potential buyers access to a great place to call home that benefits from an exceptional range of local amenities, which includes an impressive choice of schools.”