A CONSTRUCTION firm has unveiled plans to build more than 250 homes on Barrhead’s greenbelt.

Taylor Wimpey West Scotland wants to create a major residential development on land to the south of Springfield Road.

The company’s 274-property proposals, which include “associated engineering and infrastructure works”, will go on display at the Barrhead Foundry today.

Open spaces, play areas and landscaping are all listed as provisions that, developers say, will incorporate the Spierston Burn, which runs through the site.

Taylor Wimpey identified the land as it forms part of the council’s Barrhead South masterplan – an area which has capacity for around 1,000 houses.

It is one of three Strategic Development Opportunities promoted in East Renfrewshire Council’s Local Development Plan.

A total of 15 per cent of the development has been earmarked for affordable housing but that figure could change before Taylor Wimpey submits its planning application to the local authority.

Tony Buchanan, East Renfrewshire Council leader, believes the proposed development would benefit the town.

He said: “There is very much a need for more housing in the area – we see that on a regular basis.

“There will also be some additional social housing and that is a vital aspect. As a council, we are looking at increasing our social housing as much as possible. That is being looked at on a regular basis.”

The community consultation at the Foundry will give members of the public the chance to share their views and offer feedback before developers draw up final plans.

Stephen Andrew, technical director at the construction firm, said: “Public exhibitions are an excellent way for Taylor Wimpey West Scotland to engage at an early stage with the community in which it intends to deliver new homes.

“This is an important part of the process and we would encourage as many members of the public as possible to view our proposals.

“It is our intention to review all the feedback that we receive at this event in order to inform our design, prior to submitting a detailed planning application to East Renfrewshire Council later this year following conclusion of the community consultation process.”

The plans will be on display from 3pm until 8pm. More information is also available online by clicking here.

In April, the Barrhead News told how another developer wants to build 100 upmarket homes on greenbelt land near the old Boylestone Quarry.

That proposal, from Gladman Developments Ltd, was lodged four years after a failed bid to develop land north of the quarry and west of Brownside Avenue.

Families living nearby have since campaigned against the plans.