PLANS have been unveiled to convert the former shop in Clydebank where Paige Doherty died into a community shop offering free goods.

The space in Whitecrook has lain largely untouched for nearly five years since the schoolgirl’s life was taken in March 2016.

Past ideas for the site have failed to move forward as Paige’s family, the community and the property's owner struggled with what could be appropriate.

Now it's been revealed that the owner of the premises has given the space to the Glasgow group Help 4 The Homeless (H4TH) who have said it will be like a charity shop, but with items given away free.

The Post facilitated contact between group founder Melody Whitley and Paige’s mum, Pamela, last week. She is understood to support the plans.

READ MORE: Bid for law change to honour Clydebank teen Paige fails at Holyrood

Ms Whitley, 52, told the Post: “We get so much donated – household items, children’s clothes, toys – and it’s not getting used properly.

“I think it would be good for the area. The space is a constant reminder, and we don’t ever expect that to go away.

“This is not a business. We are not making money. We want to give back. It’s to try to heal the community a bit. ”

Although there have been suggestions for years that the building should be razed to the ground, it is understood the deli could not be demolished without the risk of structural damage to neighbouring properties.

Ms Whitley said although the space has been emptied, it needs a bit of work, and she wants it to look and feel welcoming.

It will have collection points for the Paige’s Promise charity. A plaque dedicated to Paige outside the shop will be renewed or replaced in discussion with her family.

READ MORE: Charity launched in honour of Whitecrook teen Paige Doherty

Ms Whitley added: “I feel much more positive about it now with the blessing of the family. We need community acceptance - it’s going to be difficult to begin with.

“We will have access to food for people who need it, but it’s not going to be predominantly food.

“I think some people are going to be hesitant about using the space for anything.

“But then it’s a constant empty space. It will be a constant reminder. That will never go away, but how do you move on from that and make it a little bit more positive for the community?

“I get the emotion that goes with the space. To me, the feeling I get is it’s in limbo - nothing is moving, and nothing is changing.

“I think Whitecrook needs this.”

Work is expected to start in the coming weeks ahead of a likely opening in May, depending on lockdown restrictions.

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