In the heart of Paisley, efforts to protect two of the town’s most iconic historical structures—Kelvin House and a neighbouring building—have recently seen important progress. Renfrewshire Council has successfully carried out essential repairs to shield these architectural gems from the elements, helping to ensure they remain secure and weatherproof for the future.
A Push to Preserve: The Challenge of Kelvin House
Kelvin House, a C-listed building located in Marshall’s Lane, and a section of the neighbouring B-listed Forbes Place have long been in need of attention. For years, these historic sites have faced the threat of deterioration, with the council seeking to find a buyer and a way to restore these buildings to their former glory.
The local authority initially engaged in talks with property development company Nixon Blue, hoping for a partnership that could bring new life to these structures. However, the complexities of the project, particularly the challenge of retaining the façade of Kelvin House, resulted in an impasse. The costs associated with maintaining the original exterior proved to be a significant hurdle, and the council was forced to explore other options.
Securing the Future: Recent Repairs
While the search for a buyer continues, the council has taken proactive steps to protect the buildings. As part of their commitment to preserving the town’s heritage, work was commissioned to make sure both Kelvin House and its neighbouring structure remain secure and wind and watertight. These essential repairs, which have now been completed, provide much-needed stability and give the council more time to explore future redevelopment opportunities.
What’s Next for Kelvin House?
As the council prepares to remarket the property, there’s hope that a new investor will step forward, someone with the vision and resources to respect the historical significance of the buildings while bringing them into the modern era. The combination of rich history and potential makes these properties both a challenge and an exciting opportunity for the right developer.
In the meantime, Renfrewshire Council’s efforts to protect these structures from the harsh Scottish weather are a crucial step in ensuring their survival.
Paisley Photographs 