FRESH plans have been unveiled to build almost 100 ‘upmarket’ homes on “picturesque” greenbelt land near to a former quarry in Barrhead – four years after a failed bid to develop the site.

However, families living nearby are unhappy about the proposals, with residents set to launch a campaign against the plans.

The application submitted by Gladman Developments Ltd last week indicates homes will be based at the land north of the Boylestone Quarry and west of Brownside Avenue.

It is the second time an attempt has been made to build on the site after a developer tried and failed to gain permission in 2013.

As well as the new residential development there will be major landscaping work to take place if the plans were approved.

Barrhead councillor Tommy Reilly confirmed the plan for the Brownside Avenue site was a 'notice of intent' by Gladman Developments Ltd.

He said: “It has come as a surprise for me as I thought the issue was dead in the water.

“There were a lot of protests about the previous plan. Now this new plan has come forward people are stopping me in the street saying they are not happy that it has resurfaced so there is likely to be a lot of opposition.

“I must say I sympathise with the locals on this one. It is a very picturesque area with a lot of flora and fauna up there.”

Gladman Developments Ltd is seeking permission in principle to build on the site and a 12-week consultation period is under way.

The public will have a chance to see the development proposals at a display and consultation in Arthurlie House on Tuesday, April 18 from 3pm to 7pm.

Kirsten Oswald MP said: “There are already a number of sites waiting for development around Barrhead and I am not persuaded we need another speculative site eating into the green belt.

“Barrhead South already has approval for over 1,000 homes on a fully master planned and consulted on development site.

“Residents of housing on the approved site will have easy access to a planned new railway station that has City Deal funding, supported by the Scottish Government.

“Many of the sites being brought forward for housing are damaging to biodiversity, create additional flood risks, or leave residents dependent on their cars.

“Developers need to work with the community and the council to produce proposals for sustainable development, and I am not convinced that has been the case with this site.”

A Gladman Developments Ltd spokeswoman declined to comment on the plans.

Meanwhile, proposals have been submitted for another major housing development in Barrhead.

The application indicates the work will be carried out at the land to the south of Springfield Road.

It proposes a residential development plus associated engineering and major infrastructure works.

Cllr Reilly added: “I had been notified of the development plans by Taylor Wimpey for the land to the south of Springfield Road but had no specific details about the number or type of homes planned.

“East Renfrewshire Council had plans to build 120 homes in the social-rented category to meet targets set by the Scottish Government.

“I would specifically like to see the brownfield ‘Shanks’ site being developed.”