PLANS to build more than 100 homes on treasured greenspace in Neilston have been abandoned in the face of fierce opposition from residents.

Dawn Homes has withdrawn its application to build 149 houses and nine flats on land at Kirkton Road – but indicated it will resubmit with a smaller proposal.

The plans, submitted in December, would have seen a range of three and four-bedroom houses being built across 23 acres of fields, if they were approved.

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However, the developer said that, following a review, it had taken the decision to withdraw its existing planning application and will resubmit for the site, which is included in the existing Local Development Plan (LDP).

It said the development will assist in the regeneration of Neilston and provide support for the existing facilities and services including the local schools.

A spokesman for Dawn Homes added: “We believe the revised planning application will deliver much-needed housing in this popular location. 

“It will attract buyers, especially families, that will help sustain the local schools and wider facilities.”

The proposals had faced stern opposition from a number of residents, who argued the development would “destroy a free, beautiful and safe public space” and create “really significant” traffic problems in the area.

A high-profile campaign was mounted to prevent any housebuilding on the land, commonly referred to as Kirkton Field, which is popular with dog walkers.

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Campaigner Rachel Ferguson, of Craighall Quadrant, said the group would continue to oppose any application Dawn Homes puts forward. 

She said: “The near 800 letters of objection to this original site stated no building should take place on the field. 

“The site the developers will now propose is not identified as a priority site that is necessary for housing needs in the LDP. 

“The LDP states that the council could lend support to the site being developed if material reasons otherwise are drawn to their attention. Neilston residents will continue to draw material reasons to the council’s attention. 

”Signatures of opposition are being collected to remove the area from the forthcoming LDP.”