A CAMPAIGN has been launched to save Ardeer’s Africa House after its owners submitted an application to bulldoze the historic site.

At the time of writing, 15 people had lodged an objection to Clowes Developments (Scotland) Ltd’s plans to demolish the B-listed building.

The building was initially built for the British Empire Exhibition in Bellahouston Park, Glasgow, in 1938 before being rebuilt brick by brick at the ICI Nobel site in Ardeer where it was used as a staff kitchen and restaurant.

However, it has lain empty since 1994 and Clowes Developments who bought the land in 2006 now want to demolish it as the “roof collapse has not only made the building interior unsafe but restoration would be unviable, given the extent of damage to the building’s internal fabric and envelope”.

Jack Dickson, who is one of those to lodge an objection, said: “The building on that land encapsulates the history and heritage and it gives people a connection. I think this could set a dangerous precedent that if buildings are left to ruin then they can get knocked down. I would personally like to see it transformed into some sort of hub or a visitor centre that actually tells people about what happened at the site.”

Another resident Graeme said: “The building, whilst it is agreed is in a poor state, is not beyond saving and represents much to almost every family in the local area whose members, historically at least, will at one time or another, have used the premise within its former guise.

“There has been an unequivocal lack of genuine effort on the part of the current owners to either restore or re-use the building, utilising available grant funding. I request that a genuinely unbiased feasibility study be commissioned.”

The views of residents who object to the demolition of the site also have the backing of Stevenston councillors.

Cllr. Davina McTiernan said: “We should be safeguarding our heritage, not bulldozing it. Many local people will remember Africa House as the ICI staff restaurant, some will have had lunch there during their days working in the factory offices.

“Sadly, the present owners have done little to protect the building from the elements, which is a story we have seen at other listed buildings in the Three Towns. The owners should look after the properties they buy. I don’t think neglect should be rewarded.”

Cllr.John Sweeney added: “I am appalled that buildings of historical and architectural significance can be neglected by development companies.”

Clowes Developments were contacted but at time of writing had yet to reply. A decision on the application will be made in May.