PLANS to turn derelict basement units in an Alexandria shopping centre into a day care for adults with disabilities have been welcomed by councillors.

Councillor for the area and West Dunbartonshire Council leader Jonathan McColl told the Reporter he was keen to see the units back up and running once again.

The plans would see three units on the ground and lower ground levels transformed into a centre with seven main spaces, including a sensory room, art room, computer room, music room, hydropool room, dining room and a storage room.

Applicants Academy House – who are based in Glasgow’s south side – described the project as a “new and dynamic service offering day opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and/or complex needs”.

The plans are also likely to bring a jobs boost to the area with four full time admin roles and a further 26 full and part-time care positions required to assist centre users.

Cllr McColl told the Reporter: “It’s good to see these basement units being developed, and for a use that will hopefully provide some extra footfall for the other commercial premises within Lomond Galleries.

“I’m pleased that Historic Environment Scotland have endorsed the plans, providing some constructive feedback on natural lighting and ventilation that will enhance the proposals.

“I’m hopeful that the applicant can meet any planning requirements and I look forward to seeing these units brought into use.”

Lomond councillor Martin Rooney added: “I welcome the proposed day care facility at Lomond Galleries and would hope that the application for change of use is looked at favourably as this not only provides a valuable service to the area but brings the prospect of more jobs which is always a key concern for local residents.

“Hopefully, common sense can prevail and we could see yet more innovative solutions to help maximize jobs and services across our area.”

While fellow ward councillor Sally Page said she believed it was a “very good idea”.

She said: “A much needed facility, I have no details of how it might be run, but I know there is a gap in provision for young adults and older people who are autistic or who have a diagnosis of Asperger’s.

“We are well provided for with retails outlets so this is a constructive change of use.”

The firm runs a similar centre in Pollokshields which already sees visitors from the West Dunbartonshire area, however, it is hoped to transfer the clients to the Alexandria base should the application be approved.

The units were formerly used as an office area for Argyll Motor Works which once used the premises as a factory before it was changed to a retail space in 1997.

In a statement the firm said it also welcomes the move, stating: “We very much welcome this proposal to bring these units into use, and we are content with the scope of alterations shown on the drawings.”

The application is now before the council’s planning department, who will rule on the application.