COUNCILLORS in Johnstone have welcomed an extra £1.5 million to pay for a refurbished St Anthony s Primary School and a new Spateston Nursery.

There had been concerns among some parents that Renfrewshire Council would struggle to find enough cash to deliver the projects in full.

However, Labour trio John Caldwell, John Hood and Iain McMillan, who represent Johnstone South, Elderslie and Howwood, have said the additional funding announced in last week’s budget will ease those fears.

Councillor McMillan told The Gazette: “Having spoken to parents, it was clear that whilst they welcomed the new nursery and the refurbishment, they were quite rightly concerned over the funding of the project.

“The decision made at the budget meeting means both projects will be delivered for staff and pupils.”

Councillor Hood added: “Anyone who knows St Anthony’s appreciates it is a terrific school and, with the opportunity for better facilities, I’m sure it will improve further.”

Councillor Caldwell said: “St Anthony’s has a wide catchment area and pupils from Elderslie to Lochwinnoch will benefit from this investment.”