Strengthened security measures are urgently needed at the derelict former Royal Alexandra Infirmary (RAI) in Paisley following a fire last weekend, according to local councillor Eddie Devine. The blaze, which broke out on Sunday, June 28, on the second floor of the B-listed building on Calside, was tackled by firefighters and brought under control without any casualties. Police Scotland continues to investigate the incident, initially treating it as wilful.
Councillor Calls for Substantial Security Upgrades
Councillor Devine, who represents Paisley Southeast, visited the scene as the fire was extinguished and the area made safe. He reported being inundated with messages from concerned neighbours. "We're all hoping something is going to be done. It's been highlighted now and some sort of action is needed, rather than people just talking about it," he said. "They need to make sure the site is secure but it also needs to be something substantial when it comes to strengthening the security. I don't know whether that could be CCTV or a physical presence. The windows also need to be looked at on the different floors. It's a concerning situation and they need to make sure this doesn't happen again."
History of Vandalism and Previous Fire
The former Royal Alexandra Infirmary, a heritage treasure between Calside and Neilston Road, has been a long-standing source of distress for local residents. It was previously ravaged by a fire in 2022 and has become a target for vandals and ghost hunters. The building had appeared to secure a lifeline in May 2024 when Renfrewshire Council approved a multi-million-pound redevelopment plan to transform the site into flats. However, the future of that project remains uncertain.
Police and Fire Service Response
Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing, having previously stated the fire is being treated as wilful. A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: "We were alerted at 4:02 pm on Sunday, June 28, to reports of a building fire on Calside, Paisley. Operations Control mobilised four appliances and specialist resources to the scene, and firefighters extinguished a fire affecting the second floor of a derelict building. There are no reported casualties, and crews left at 9:52 pm after ensuring the area was made safe."
