Boost as road set for major overhaul

Campaigners pushing for the A737 to be upgraded to a dual carriageway secured a victory after councillors agreed to put pressure on the Scottish Government to deliver the project.

At a packed virtual full council meeting on Thursday, elected members unanimously voted through a motion by Councillor Andy Doig, which called for the council to push ministers in Holyrood to agree to the full dualling of the major road through West Renfrewshire.

The motion also demanded the Scottish Government give a timescale and budget for its completion.

The notorious road is dualled up to Kilbarchan but then turns into a single carriageway for the stretch down to Lochwinnoch.

A number of high-profile accidents have occured on it over the years, including fatalities.

Councillor Doig, who represents the area as an Independent, said he was relieved to get the backing of colleagues to push for the upgrade, which he feels will benefit villagers economically and in terms of safety.

He said: “Since June 2015 I have consistently argued for the dualling and upgrade of the A737.

“I am delighted the council has now spoken with one voice and called on the Scottish Government to fund the upgrade of the A737, as this is key for both economic and safety reasons.

“The Lochwinnoch to Kilbarchan leg is a key gap and requires dualling if my constituents in Johnstone and the villages are to take advantage of the estimated economic opportunities at the Glasgow Airport Investment Area over the next decade.

“The population of West Renfrewshire should not be disadvantaged in chasing these vital future jobs.

“But there is also a compelling health and safety case for the upgrade of the A737 which has gathered significant community support, led by Howwood Community Council, but also backed by those in Johnstone, Kilbarchan, Loch win no cha nd Brookfield.

“The notorious Howwood junction is a black spot where many accidents have taken place and this has to end.”