Kilbarchan Park set for £50,000 investment

Young and old alike are set to benefit from a £50,000 investment in Kilbarchan Park as new outdoor gym equipment and upgraded play equipment was approved by councillors.

The fitness equipment will allow the park to be used for outdoor fitness classes, while new seating and picnic areas will encourage families to use the park more often.

For younger parkgoers, the zip wire is set to be renewed and play areas resurfaced, and young people will be further consulted on new equipment to be added to the park.

The investment has been secured from Renfrewshire Council’s Green Spaces, Parks and Play Areas and Villages Investment Fund following an application by Kilbarchan Community Council.

Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to support Kilbarchan Community Council in their plans to upgrade the local park as it will make such a difference to the local community, both young and old.

“It’s such an important part of the local area and it’s great to see the community spirit involved in bringing these plans to fruition.

“This fund is a great example of local people being able to take control and make the changes they know are required for their area.

“If this has inspired you, or you feel like your area has missed out, please get in touch with us and we’ll work with you to create an application for your local green space, park or play area.”

The Community Council will now advance their plans for improvement and hope to start work later this year.

Fiona Stewart, Chair of Kilbarchan Community Council, said: “After much consultation with the residents of Kilbarchan, proposals for improving Kilbarchan Park were pulled together by the Community Council and it has taken just under two years to take the proposals from the planning stage to implementation.

“Working with Renfrewshire Council on a limited budget, the play area has undergone several improvements and the necessary work to reinstate drainage in the park has also taken place.

“The exciting prospect of new sports and recreation equipment, as well as repairing the existing much loved zipwire, is well on its way to fruition and the Community Council are delighted that stage two of works in the park can now take place, especially at this time of restricted travel and works will start this year.”

The £1.87million fund is available to all communities who have an idea as to how they can improve a green space, park or play area in their area and anyone interested is encouraged to contact the council for an initial discussion and support.

The Villages Investment Fund has £370,000 ringfenced specifically for investment in Renfrewshire’s villages and applications are welcomed that strengthen the character, identity and heritage of the local community.

For more information, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/greenspacesfund.