THERE are fears the main event in Johnstone’s social calendar could be forced to move due to the “disgraceful” condition of Thomas Shanks Park.
Organisers of Johnstone Gala Day, which is due to take place in August, say they may have to relocate to the town centre if things don’t improve in time.
The condition of the park has long been a source of frustration for residents, who feel they have been neglected by Renfrewshire Council in favour of towns such as Paisley.
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Iain McMillan, secretary of Johnstone Community Council, told The Gazette doubts arose about the condition of the park during last year’s gala day.
He said: “People in Johnstone are annoyed as there is definitely a feeling that a lot of the money from Renfrewshire Council is going to Paisley and Renfrew.
“Shanks Park is an absolute disgrace and the infrastructure really needs a lot of work. The concern now is about the gala day. If the park isn’t sorted by August, there is a big chance we will need to think about moving the event.
“Last year really showed how bad the park was. The last thing we need is for some poor soul to fall.”
Councillor John Hood, whose ward covers the park, feels it has been “left behind” and is no longer the pride of Johnstone.
The Labour man told The Gazette: “The paths are an absolute nightmare and the park is a complete no-go area at night as there is no street lighting.
“For a town like Johnstone to have such a big park in such a state is a disgrace.
“I feel Johnstone is being left behind as the council ploughs money into the likes of Robertson Park, in Renfrew and Barshaw Park, in Paisley.
“It is a real crying shame.
“There’s a danger it could lead to the cancellation of Johnstone Gala Day this year, as the park is just in such a state.
“This shouldn’t be getting swept under the carpet while everywhere else gets investment.”
Money has been set aside by Renfrewshire Council to repair the park and The Gazette understands officers are working closely with campaign group Friends of Thomas Shanks Park to try to complete repairs before the big event.
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A council spokesperson said: “Funding has been allocated to carry out improvement works at Thomas Shanks Park.
“Some of this funding will be used to upgrade paths in the park and we are working with Johnstone Community Council on identifying further improvements.”
The spokesperson added: “The work on the paths is being treated as a priority and we expect it to be completed before Johnstone Gala Day.”
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