THE organisers of a consultation on the future of Erskine have welcomed a ‘very positive start’.

Erskine residents have been giving their views and comments in advance of a series of public workshops.

On the afternoons of February 2 - 6, Erskine Community Sports Centre will host a series of workshops known as a charrette.

Local people will be able to drop in to the seminars and give their ideas on a number of themes affecting the future of Erskine town centre – including the town centre, parks and greenspace, land and property, and setting priorities.

Then on Saturday, February 6, from 1-4pm, the ideas generated during the week will feature in an exhibition.

Along with hundreds of comments and ideas posted on facebook, residents, school pupils, and businesses have already been putting forward ideas in the street, in shops, and for one group of elderly residents, in their sheltered housing complex.

Councillor Terry Kelly, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Planning and Property Policy Board, said: “All the views expressed will help shape the council’s town centre strategy for Erskine.

“I am very encouraged at the interest and involvement that has been shown so far and I would urge as many people as possible to come along and also contribute to the public workshops.

“The people of Erskine have shown that they want to see their community thrive and we are looking forward to gathering and building on their ideas.”

Locally-based planning consultant Nick Wright, who is organising the sessions, said: “Some of the best talking points come as we take a cart round the streets of Erskine, unfold a big map, and get people to point out what they would like to see in the area.”

Further information on the workshops and all the ways to get involved is available at www.facebook.com/ErskineCharrette