The comprehensive range of measures set out in the scheme ranges from specific development proposals for vacant land and buildings to detailed design guidance for residents wishing to make alterations to their property. Many of the development proposals of the scheme are largely achievable by the disposal of publicy owned land and buildings. Where ownership problems are preventing the implementation of specific proposals, the District Council is making use of its statutory and discretionary powers to enable development to proceed. The first year of the Town Scheme has seen an initially disappointing demand for grant aid from local property owners replaced by an increased number of applications by the end of 1987/88 and a full utilisation of the year's budget. A Town Sch_eme, complemented by advice leaflets and an Article 4 Direction has also been introduced and the multi-agency approach advocated in the enhancement scheme has resulted in the formation of the Oakshaw Steering Committee. This comprises representatives from the District and Regional Councils, SDA, SOD, Scottish Civic Trust and local residents and its main purpose is to provide a forum for the various organisations with an interest in the area and to monitor the progress of projects identified. Much remains to be done. The decline in the fabric of Oakshaw has taken place over many years and it is unrealistic to expect an overnight transformation. Nevertheless the scheme of enhancement provides a positive framework for change and the first year of its operation suggests that this potentially delightful part of Paisley will, over the next few years, be regenerated in a manner befitting its 'outstanding' designation Further Information Progress to Date Copies of the Oakshaw Scheme of Enhancement and further information on its content may be obtained by contacting the author at Renfrew District Council, Municipal Buildings, Cotton Street, Paisley, Tel: 041-889-5400, Extension 2425. Jim Dewar Supervisory Planner Renfrew District Council Although only in operation since July 1987, progress to date has been encouraging. New build private house building in the form of 19 flats has recently been completed in Oakshaw Street, the rehabilitation of Listed but derelict former commercial premises in School Wynd for residential use is nearing completion and offers for a prominent derelict site and Listed Building in Oakshaw Street have recently been accepted on the basis of a design submission. The Category 'A' Listed but for many years redundant John Nelson Institution is shortly to be marketed and there is considerable private sector interest generally in future opportunities in the area. The views in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Renfrew District Council. IllII111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111 IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Ill ' ''Cairdean Nan Taighean'' andthe Thatched HousesMaintenanceScheme by James Souness Cutting rushes for thatch (Jim Souness) The traditional domestic buildings of the Highlands, notably the thatched house, have received relatively little academic attention, and even less attention to their conservation. This is a pity, because in their basic form these buildings are classic examples of vernacular architecture, relatively simple in construction yet incorporating a wide range of local variations, having been adapted by a poor people to cope admirably with harsh weather and limited building materials. "Their strength and integrity", as R. J. Naismith writes, "respond to much of what is being sought for in architecture of local character". Despite being the homes of a majority of Highlanders until the late 19th century, thatched houses have now all but disappeared, so that those few remaining are of great importance to local identity. Practically all are now listed, several at 'A' grade, yet listing alone is unable to prevent deterioration and collapse through neglect. Numbers continue to decline and those remaining are at increasing risk. Realisation of this threat led planners with Argyll and Bute District Council to co-operate with other bodies, notably the Historic Buildings Council for Scotland, in investigating the practicalities for conservation. Initial efforts focussed on the island of Tiree where one of the last concentrations (around 15 or so) of thatched buildings can be found. A detailed IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIJIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII 18
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjgyMjA=