Work is set to commence on a new community space in the heart of Ferguslie Park as part of the Making of Ferguslie initiative. The project, scheduled to begin on January 20, aims to transform a long-vacant area into a vibrant activity and gathering space for the local residents. The new games area at Bankfoot Road will cover an area equivalent to a football pitch and will feature a unique sunken design, surrounded by a tree-lined central boulevard.
The community space is envisioned as a hub for locals to socialise, play, and enjoy outdoor activities. It will be connected to existing facilities through a new path network and will incorporate lighting, drainage, and landscaping to create a welcoming environment for both people and wildlife. With an investment of £500k, the project is a significant step towards revitalizing the area and fostering community engagement.
The Ferguslie Green Line initiative, under which this project falls, aims to repurpose underused land, enhance green spaces, and support community-led initiatives in Ferguslie Park. Local community leaders have expressed their excitement and approval of the new development, highlighting its potential to improve mental health and well-being through outdoor activities.
In addition to the new community space, the Making of Ferguslie plan has already delivered various projects, including the refurbishment of Craigielea House and the creation of new growing spaces on unused land. These initiatives, developed in collaboration with the community, complement the construction of 101 new council homes at the former St Fergus Primary School site.
Councillor Andy Steel, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s economy and regeneration policy board, praised the ongoing regeneration efforts in Ferguslie Park. He emphasised the importance of providing residents with welcoming spaces to connect and engage within their neighbourhood. The project is funded by Renfrewshire Council, the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, and the Scottish Government’s Place Based Investment Programme.
The new community space is expected to be completed by the summer, enriching the local area and fostering a sense of pride and ownership among residents. The positive reception of the initiative underscores the community’s eagerness for more rejuvenation projects that cater to their needs and enhance their quality of life.