The large scale regeneration of seven brown field sites at Linwood by Sanctuary Scotland was an ambitious project in partnership with Renfrewshire Council and the Scottish Government. Twenty-three problematic, multi-storey maisonette blocks were demolished and replaced with 190 low-density family homes. The regeneration has re-housed approximately 450 local people. Fourteen house types of various sizes were developed to meet a broad spectrum of needs, ranging from single occupants to young couples and large families.

All 190 Linwood homes have generous living space, including a utility room. All larger, family homes have en-suite bathrooms. All wheelchair accessible homes have been fitted with under-floor heating. The majority of new homes are for rent but a number were available for shared equity.

Design individuality is brought to each home through the use of three differently coloured, glazed bricks. The appearance of each dwelling’s front facade depends on the brick used. The colours evoke memories of the Hillman Imp motor vehicle being manufactured in Linwood, linking the area’s former successes to its bright new future. A network of tree-lined avenues have connected the sites to one another and improved the existing green footpaths / cycle-ways to the surrounding river walks and school routes.