PEOPLE in a Renfrewshire village are celebrating the improvements made to a popular park.

New equipment was unveiled at Houston Road Park in Bridge of Weir on Saturday.
On hand for the launch were councillor Natalie Don and members of the local Tenants and Residents Association (TARA).

It is one of five neighbourhood parks chosen by Renfrewshire Council for a share of a £250,000 investment windfall from a previous year’s budget.

Following consultation with community groups about how the money should be spent, there was a clear priority highlighted for Houston Road Park to be more accessible for all children. 

Some of the new items include percussion instruments, games panels, a swing that can be used by both adults and children, as well as an accessible see-saw and a merry-go-round. 

Improvements to the surrounding paths will also take place in an effort to improve access.
Councillor Don, who represents the village, said: “I have pushed for this upgrade since I was a member of Bridge of Weir Community Council.

“Along with the Tara, we have worked vigorously to make sure this investment was a top priority.

“I am very proud we now have a park that is inclusive and accessible for all children. 

“The new equipment has only been in place for a couple of weeks but it has proved extremely popular so far.” 

The councillor added: “As a lifelong resident of Bridge of Weir, I played in this park when I was a young girl.”

Cllr Don added she was very happy to see investment in the park which would allow more children to come along, enjoy the new equipment and make happy memories.

She went on: “In the coming weeks we will also see upgrades to the paths which was agreed as part of this investment, with these scheduled to start any day now.”

Chris Gilzean, chairman of Bridge of Weir Tara, was happy to welcome the introduction of the new playground equipment.

He said: “The Tenants and Residents Association is delighted with the new play equipment.

"It’s exactly what the park needed to allow kids with mobility restrictions to play with their friends.”

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