Calls for investment into Johnstone parks
An aspiring politician has blasted Renfrewshire Council for its“lack of investment”in Johnstone’s parks.
Labour candidate Chris Gilmour says a recent £1 million project to upgrade and refurbish parks throughout Renfrewshire has failed to benefit the town.
The former councillor hopes to return to his previous role representing the area and is standing in the Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood and Lochwinnoch ward at May’s Local Government election.
He pledged last week to“restore civic pride”in Johnstone’s ailing centre if he clinches an election victory at the polls.
Chris says despite major investment at parks in Erskine, Paisley and Renfrew as part of a rolling project, the local authority has neglected sites in his hometown.
He said:“Renfrewshire Council are spending £1.25millions on parks however the people of Johnstone are not seeing the benefits from these investments.
“Indeed, Johnstone parks have been neglected for years.
“Limited play equipment which is rusty and situated on badly repaired and uneven surfaces clearly highlights the lack of investment in play facilities. The play park in the Miller Street area of the town is a prime example of old and careworn equipment and no seating provision whatsoever. Johnstone deserves better. “Its time for change.”
Sandyflats and Ellerslie Street parks in Johnstone are included in a list of locations where play parks will see the installation of brand-new equipment as part of Renfrewshire Council’s £1 million investment package.
Sites earmarked for upgrade work as part of a second phase will include Elm Drive in Johnstone as well as Howwood Toddler Park.
A Renfrewshire Council spokesperson said:“As part of the play park improvements being made across Renfrewshire, the play parks in Elm Drive/ Sycamore Ave and Ellerslie Street in Johnstone will be completely renewed with new play equipment this year.
“Eleven in total will be renewed across Renfrewshire’s towns and villages, with a further six having play equipment refurbished.
“Following the completion of these works and funding being available, consideration will be given to the next set of play parks improvements and the play parks most in need will be prioritised.”