Extension of walking and cycling path will give more travel options to residents

Residents and visitors will have more choices for how they travel around Inchinnan and Erskine as construction is due to start on a pavement extension which will also allow cycling in the area. 

The improvements have been supported by an investment of £1.6 million through the Scottish Government’s Active Travel Infrastructure Fund.   

Construction is set to start on Monday 2 February to extend the existing walking and cycle network the Red Smiddy Roundabout north onto Southbar Road and up to Southholm Roundabout. As part of these works a zebra crossing will be installed across Southbar Road at the Red Smiddy Roundabout to allow a safe crossing point for local residents. 

Work will then carry on beyond Southholm Roundabout and involve the construction of a raised footway to connect the existing footway overbridge over the A726 which will provide direct access to Park Mains High School, Erskine shopping area and all the connected footpaths which form part of Erskine’s safe walking routes.  

Work on the Red Smiddy shared walking and cycling path is expected to be complete by Summer 2026.    

To allow the works to take place temporary traffic lights will be in operation on a phased basis along the route to ensure the safety of workers and road users.   

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:“I’m pleased that Renfrewshire Council is now taking forward these ambitious active travel improvements, supported by investment of £1.6 million from the Scottish Government. 

“By improving crossings, widening pavements and creating new paths, it will make it easier and safer for people to walk, wheel and cycle between key destinations across Inchinnan and Erskine. 

“To help local authorities across the country to deliver on their ambitions, the Scottish Government is investing over £188 million in active and sustainable transport in 2025–26. In doing so, we’re helping more people to save money, improve health, and reduce emissions.” 

Leader of Renfrewshire Council and local ward councillor, Cllr Iain Nicolson, said: “The need for more pavement access in Erskine is something that’s been regularly raised with us. The continuation of the Red Smiddy walking and cycle path will expand the network in the area and improve the ability of local residents to move about safely alongside our main roads for walking, wheeling, and cycling.   

“Once complete it will provide safer options for people living, working and visiting the area as well as direct access to Park Mains High School and Erskine’s shopping area and to and from places of employment like Inchinnan Business Park. 

“We are aware there may be some level of traffic management involved, and we will work to minimise this where we can and once completed its another missing link in making sure our roads are as safe as possible for all users.”