Taking the lead It’s time to get active again
BY RENFREWSHIRE
COUNCIL LEADER IAIN NICOLSON
As we continue to negotiate our way through this pandemic, it’s been great to see more of what we used to know as normal life start to reopen again.
Exercise is important for a healthy body and mind so I’m glad that the Scottish Government have managed to find the correct balance to allow local people back to gyms, swimming pools and indoor sports courts, but not comprising anyone’s safety at the same time.
I know how beneficial this will be to so many people across Renfrewshire so it’s great that we are now in this position and if you’re a member of a Renfrewshire Leisure facility, then please check their website for details of the gradual reopening of services.
It remains vitally important that if you develop symptoms, then you should self-isolate immediately and get tested.
However, please only request a test if you have symptoms of the virus – which are a new continuous cough, fever/high temperature and/or loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste (anosmia).
I know in these times you may want to be ultra-cautious if you or a child are under the weather, but please only get tested if you have the above symptoms.
Last week, we launched a consultation into proposed biodiversity areas in Renfrewshire – something we know is hot topic for people in our communities.
We’ve identified a number of areas across Renfrewshire which have been assessed as having the potential to encourage natural plants, flowers and wildlife, but we want you to not only tell us if they are suitable but where else we should be considering having them.
It’s important to note that any areas approved by the community will be managed and each would have their own maintenance programme and biodiversity plan, such as wildflower seeding being added if required.
Let us know what you think via www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ biodiversityconsultation or call 0300 300 0330.
Another exciting community project is our Celebrating Renfrewshire
Fund which gives anyone aged 12
25, or those who work with this age group, the chance to access a share of £150,000 fund for their idea on how to make life better for young people in Renfrewshire.
This could be anything from new sports equipment to mental health support sessions – it’s really up to the young people.
They come up with the idea, vote for their winners and then carry out the projects to make a difference to their own lives and the lives of their peers.
For more information, visit www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/ CelebratingRenfrewshire.
Finally, it’s fantastic to see our ever-growing Team Up to Clean Up campaign launch Spotless September once again.
A little different this year of course, we’re encouraging people to get out into the local areas during September themselves or in small groups to do their bit to keep Renfrewshire tidy – but ensuring they stay safe at all times.
A real community has been created through this campaign, shown by more than 300 new people joining our Facebook group during lockdown, and I’m delighted by its ongoing success.
The support of volunteers to work alongside our own street cleaning teams has been invaluable and I can’t wait to see how it continues to grow.