Plans to convert a former restaurant in Paisley town centre into a betting shop have been given the green light by Renfrewshire Council.
BoyleSports has been granted planning permission, subject to conditions, for the overhaul at the site previously home to Be Capri in Gilmour Street.
The local authority's decision has paved the way for the unit, which is said to have been empty since the end of last year, to be brought back into use.
Planning Statement Highlights Town Centre Changes
A planning statement, prepared by agent company Lichfields, explained: "The town centre market has undergone significant changes in recent years as a result of Covid-19, the growth of online services and evolving consumer behaviour."
"Even within city centre shopping areas, there has been a shift towards a broader mix of operations catering to a wider range of needs."
"The applicant property has been vacant since the end of 2025 and, in its current state, makes no contribution to the vitality or viability of Paisley town centre."
"The proposal will bring this vacant unit into active use, making a positive contribution to the function of Paisley town centre and increasing footfall."
"Betting offices have been shown to attract regular repeat visitors which can support surrounding shops and services through linked trips."
Operating Hours and Investment Details
According to Lichfields, the proposed operating hours of the betting shop are 8am until 10pm, seven days per week.
It added that approximately £380,000 is set to be spent on the fit-out of the unit and three full-time and three-part time jobs will be created.
In its report of handling, the council said: "The unit is situated on a main commercial street in the heart of Paisley town centre and has been vacant for approximately one year."
"Renfrewshire's Local Development Plan is supportive of the sustainable reuse of vacant buildings, particularly in town centres, while NPF4 Policy 9 specifically supports the reuse and adaption to other uses of existing empty buildings."
"In this regard, bringing a long-vacant shopfront into use supports the principles of NPF4 Policy 9 and would be beneficial to the general vitality and viability of the overall town centre."
In its official decision notice, issued last week, the local authority confirmed the proposal was in line with the provisions of the development plan. An application for advertisement consent was also approved.
