An important part of Paisley’s textile weaving heritage is under threat of demolition.

The Blackhall Mill and its distinctive tower have stood near the town centre for 167 years and is thought to be the only purpose-built silk throwing mill in Scotland.

But the iconic four-storey C-listed brick building is now under threat as owners Vinemeadow Ltd seek to flatten it to build houses.

A social media campaign is under way to save the Blackhall Lane factory and nearby Anchor House and Hamilton House.

Activist Eric McCay, 59, runs the online history group The Only Way Is Paisley and has urged locals to lodge objections to the plans with Renfrewshire Council.

He explained: “This building is of huge significance for Paisley and nationally.

“It’s an important part of our past and helps tell the story of our town’s rise to being a worldwide textile manufacturer.

“The silk made here would have been used to make the famous Paisley shawls and it’s important this is recognised.

“Once these old buildings are gone, they aren’t coming back.”

Built in 1848 for D Speirs and Son, Blackhall Mill’s raw silk was made into threads.

As the availability of the coveted material dwindled, local weavers concentrated on cotton – a decision which would put Paisley on the international stage for a hundred years.

As the 20th century dawned, the site was converted into a paper mill, before becoming offices near the end of its life.

It has lain derelict for several years and has been targeted by vandals and metal thieves, leaving it in poor condition.

But Mr McCay believes the building could once again become an important part of the town.

He added: “You just need to look at the Anchor Mill to see what a bit of creativity can do to safeguard our historic buildings and bring them into the modern age.

“The council keep going on about heritage tourism but there won’t be anything left to see at this rate.

“Ayr is a great example of a town which has retained many of its important old buildings but brought them up to date for modern living.”

The council has confirmed it is processing an application for demolition.

A council spokesman said: “We have received planning and listed building applications which seek consent for the demolition of industrial buildings at Blackhall Street as part of a wider regeneration scheme for housing.

“Council policy requires that any proposals to demolish listed buildings are justified against criteria set out in the Scottish Historic Environment Policy.

“The criteria include tests to establish whether a building is capable of productive re-use which would consider viability in terms of cost and structural condition as well as the architectural or historic importance of the building.

“The proposal is currently being assessed and will then go to councillors on the Planning and Property Policy Board for a decision.”

Vinemeadow Ltd was not available for comment.