RENFREWSHIRE Council have agreed terms to bring The Chivas Bothers site in Paisley into public ownership, with the aim of boosting the local economy. 

The council has said that the land will be used for new developments which will bring new jobs to the area post-COVID. 

Renfrewshire Council Leader Iain Nicolson said: “Coronavirus has had a huge impact on the local, national and global economies and we must be ready and able to tackle the social and economic harm now and in the months ahead.

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“The Chivas Brothers site provided many local jobs over the years and I am pleased that while one chapter is closing, this purchase will ensure the site continues to play a vital role in the region’s future for many years to come.

"Securing its public ownership will enable us to consider a range of development opportunities which support long-term growth of the local economy and bring benefits to the surrounding communities."

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The land has also been noted as a potential location for Paisley Grammar School, with the remainder of the site to be purchased by Scottish Leather Group who will create a 100 jobs with the aquisition. 

Iain McFadyen, CEO of Scottish Leather Group said: “We are extremely pleased to have secured the North Hall part of the Chivas Brothers site which will allow us to expand our operations in Renfrewshire. The site will initially employ 100 people cutting leather for premium automotive interiors.”