Loving the high life

Living the high life just got even better for residents of Johnstone’s Provost Close multi-storey flats.

Work has been completed in time for Christmas on a magic makeover to create a welcoming entrance area.

The upgrade to the 13-storey building includes a brand new extension, with a state-of-the-art buzzer operated entry system and automatic door.

Stylish wall and floor tiles and energy efficient sensor-activated lighting create a warm and safe feel in the foyer.

And a new brick finish to the external walls together with freshly painted fencing and shutters means residents have an arrival area to be proud of.

Eleventh floor resident Bob Duffy is a member of the Tenants and Residents Association and hailed the positive impact of the improvement works.

He said: “The biggest thing for me has been how the change in appearance of the building has changed the attitudes of local people towards the people who live here. The entrance area had looked a bit tired; now the modernisation means the public look at the building differently.

“The foyer lighting is great and makes the place feel a lot safer. All in all it is a very warm and welcoming environment and really looks the part.”

Ann MacNeill is Provost Close’ oldest resident having moved into the top floor flat when the building opened in 1976.

She said: “I have loved every minute here and have never wanted to move as the location is perfect for me. I feel safe here and am really impressed with the works to the foyer.

“I have such a wonderful view, especially on a crisp sunny morning. I remember when my mum came to visit not long after I moved in, she looked out the window to see a plane taking off and she turned to me and said she could see the pilot changing his socks.”

Provost Close has received the most significant improvements of the £270,000 works, with enhancements also carried out to the foyer areas at Paisley’s Gleniffer, Maxwellton and Nethercraigs multi-storey buildings.

All four buildings, together with George Court, are in line to receive further investment with a new energy efficient insulation system being installed through a phased programme.

Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board said: “Provost Close is looking great and the new look foyer ensures the building offers a warm, welcoming and safe environment for its residents and visitors.

“It was great to hear how much residents like Bob and Ann really enjoy living here and we will continue to invest in improvements to properties and in new affordable housing to ensure Renfrewshire is an attractive place where people want to live.”