Councillors at East Renfrewshire's cabinet meeting received an update on the position with Braidbar Quarries in Giffnock.

The ground at the former sandstone quarry is considered dangerous and liable to subside.

East Renfrewshire Council had sought to work in partnership with a private contractor to stabilise the ground and bring it back into public use.

After an examination of the local plan, a Scottish Government appointed reporter decided that the proposal should be removed from the plan. That and the current economic conditions prompted partner Macdonald Estates to withdraw last September.

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Now council officers have reported to councillors at the council's cabinet meeting that they are sourcing both legal and technical advice to find a long term solution to the issues at Braidbar Quarries.

They've also pledged to make sure local residents are kept informed of progress.

Council leader Councillor Jim Fletcher said: "Braidbar Quarries needs a long term solution. The decision by the reporter and subsequent withdrawal by Macdonald estates on our workable solution has put us onto the back foot. I hope nearby residents, and in particular the ones living in homes blighted by the quarries will be reassured that we will continue to seek a long term technical solution that brings this area back into use."

Councillor Fletcher repeated council safety advice to residents to stay away from the ground at Braidbar Quarries.

He said: "The quarries are dangerous and liable to subside. We have put up strong new fences to replace the broken down wooden ones and new warning signage. Yet still people are breaking their way in to the site. I cannot emphasise strongly enough to stay clear of this site. The signs and fences are there to protect you."

(GK)