A SPORTS pavilion in Renfrew which is in a “poor state of repair” is set to get a long-awaited makeover after councillors clubbed together to push for an upgrade.

The Kirklandneuk pavilion, which is used by Renfrew Victoria Youth Football Club and managed by Renfrewshire Leisure, has been described as “sub-standard” and in desperate need of improvements.

The club are going through an asset transfer process to claim ownership of the Ness Road building and two grass pitches from Renfrewshire Council and, last year, were awarded almost £4,000 from the local authority’s Community Empowerment Fund to enable them to get architects’ plans for the refurbishment of the changing rooms.

But, since then, they have faced obstacles in getting further funding and businesses to carry out the work.

However, Councillor Jane Strang, who has been pressing for upgrades at the club for three years, confirmed refurbishment work, including a revamp of disabled facilities and showers, has now got the green light.

Councillor Strang, who represents Renfrew North and Braehead, said she enlisted the help of council colleagues John McIntyre and Bill Binks to get the process moving.

“The playing fields and associated facilities at Kirklandneuk are absolutely vital for Victoria Boys Club and the youngsters who play there,” she added.

“It has been frustrating seeing the delays but it now feels we are moving forward as the club returns to training and playing following the Covid-19 lockdown.

“For too long, there have been substandard facilities inside the pavilion and the upgrading of disabled facilities, as well as showers, will be a real boost for the club.”

Councillor Binks was able to direct the club to the Glasgow Airport FlightPath Fund for a further cash boost, while Councillor McIntrye used his business contacts to enlist the help of a company to carry out the work.

“I was more than happy to assist Councillor Strang in this matter, which I know is of significant importance to many youngsters in her ward,” said Councillor Binks.

“Using the Glasgow Airport Flightpath Fund to help upgrade the pavilion at Kirklandneuk is exactly the sort of local project this funding should be supporting.”

Council chiefs have said that, due to the power supply for the pavilion being located in the community centre, it needs to separate electricity meters or install sub-meters so each facility has individual accounts before the asset transfer can be fully completed.

A spokesman added: “The remainder of the community centre will continue to be operated by Renfrewshire Leisure and the Kirklandneuk Management Committee and we are currently working with all partners to ensure the two facilities can operate independently.”

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