Council pushes on with homes plans
The former Stenhousemuir police station
Plans to knock down a former police office to make way for council houses has come under fire.
Falkirk Council wants to demolish the building in Stenhousemuir – along with the registry office next door if it can get vacant possession.
But the SNP wants full public consultation before any decision is taken.
Last week’s housing committee was told 12 properties could be built on the land.
Nine other sites are under consideration as potential sites for new council housing as part of a five-year programme.
In six areas, work to build 186 new homes has already been taken to the next stage.
This latest feasibility study reveals a possible 463 houses could be built on the 10 areas proposed.
They are: old Grangemouth High School (56 homes); Seabegs Road, Bonnybridge (48); old Denny High School (200); Stenhousemuir Police Station (12); old Falkirk High School (25); old Torwood School (15); California Road, Maddiston (25); Oxgang Road, Grangemouth (20); Denny Town centre – two sites (42); and The Rumlie, Slamannan (20).
Calling for public consultation on the Stenhousemuir site, Councillor David Alexander said: “This building is an integral part of the history of the area – it is valuable and is valued. It is where Stenhousemuir and Larbert parish council met over 100 years ago.
“The local members have expressed concerns that the only option is for demolition. We would be making a mistake.”
Councillor Gerry Goldie, housing convener, said: “One of the things we will be looking at is the viability of all locations. It may be that the proposed sites are not feasible.
“Further options are being considered and we will react to any concerns.”
The SNP’s amendment for full consultation was defeated on the casting vote of the convener.
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Weather for Falkirk
Tuesday 21 May 2013
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Temperature: 7 C to 16 C
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