A HOUSEBUILDER has chipped in with a £1,000 grant towards the refurbishment of an underpass in Johnstone.

Persimmon Homes West Scotland supported the Community Improvement Project to help transform the underpass – a target for vandalism and anti-social behaviour for years.

The Renfrewshire Council initiative will include new lighting, a mural and “graffiti glaze” – which will prevent vandalism in the future.

It is hoped the work will enhance the whole area and encourage the community, particularly the children, to use the underpass instead of crossing the road to access the shops.

Work on the underpass is expected to be completed by the summer.

Doug Law, managing director at Persimmon Homes West Scotland, said: “The underpass serves an area in Johnstone where we are currently building and we feel sure that both existing residents, and future buyers at our Scholars Green development will appreciate the transformation.”

The donation comes as part of the firm’s Community Champions scheme.

Each month, the firm donates up to £2,000 to community groups and good causes in every one its 29 regional business.

Groups apply for funding by visiting www.persimmonhomes.com/charity.