Beat the Street is returning to Renfrewshire

An interactive game encouraging people of all ages to get active and explore their local surroundings is set to return to towns and villages across Renfrewshire this autumn.

Running from 10 September to 22 October, the free six-week game will transform the towns and villages of Bridge of Weir, Elderslie, Houston, Howwood, Kilbarchan, Linwood, Johnstone, and Lochwinnoch into a giant game board. Players are invited to walk, cycle, run, wheel, or scoot between special sensors known as Beat Boxes to earn points and win prizes.

The game tracks players’ journeys and steps, collectively building towards a mileage target that reflects the community’s commitment to active travel. In 2023, Renfrewshire participants clocked up an impressive 118,459 miles, and this year, organisers hope to go even further.

Players simply find their nearest Beat Box, tap it with their game card or app, and then travel to another Beat Box within an hour to score points. The further players travel, the more points they score for their school, workplace, community or charity team.

As in previous years, there will be leaderboards for schools, community groups, and workplaces, with both total and average points categories to ensure fair competition for teams of all sizes.

Primary schools will distribute game materials to pupils, while members of the wider community can collect a card from designated distribution points listed at www.beatthestreet.me/renfrewshire. Players aged 13 and over can also take part using the free Beat the Street app.

Beat the Street encourages communities to get moving by making small, everyday changes, such as choosing to walk or cycle instead of driving, that add up to a healthier lifestyle and a more active, connected community. The game helps embed active travel into daily routines, making it easier for people to stay fit, reduce their carbon footprint, and engage with their local areas.

 Councillor Michelle Campbell, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Beat the Street back to Renfrewshire. It’s a brilliant way to inspire sustainable habits, bring people together, and rediscover our beautiful parks, streets, and green spaces.

“As well as helping people make healthier lifestyle choices, such as walking to work or taking the scenic route home, it also supports improvements in air quality, reduces congestion, and strengthens connections within our communities.

“To everyone taking part, have fun, enjoy exploring, and let’s see if we can beat our previous total! Every step counts.”

 Beat the Street Renfrewshire has been commissioned by Renfrewshire Council and funded by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT). It is being delivered by Intelligent Health.

 More information will be available at www.beatthestreet.me/renfrewshire and on social media @RenfrewshireBTS