A PLEA has been made to give off-road bikers a new space in Johnstone amid fears illegal riding at a public park is putting lives at risk.

A number of bikers, many believed to be in their early teens, have been spotted whizzing around Thomas Shanks Park, prompting concerns that a serious accident could take place.

Last month, two teenagers died in Lanarkshire after their dirt bike collided with a van.

Councillor John Hood, who represents Johnstone South and Elderslie, believes a solution is needed to prevent a similar tragedy taking place in Renfrewshire.

“I can see both sides of the issue,” he told The Gazette. “It is something I have received complaints about, as the big bikes can be very loud and cause damage to the park.

“I’m also worried that one of these bikes could hit a kid or a dog.

“However, more and more people appear to be getting these off-road bikes, so there needs to be some place where they can go.

“I definitely think the council needs to look at providing a space where people can ride these bikes and be safe.

“There is plenty of land available in Johnstone, including a big area across from the park where there are no houses.”

There are also concerns the dirt and quad bikes have been damaging footpaths and grassy areas at the park.

Mark McGee, chair of the Thorn Athletic Community Trust, said: “The tracks formed by the off-road bikes repeatedly going over the same areas of the park have been getting quite deep and could cause lasting damage.

“I’m surprised no-one has been hurt so far, as sometimes they are going very fast in dark and icy conditions.

“No-one wants to stop kids having fun but a public park is not the environment for them to be riding in.”

A spokesperson for Renfrewshire Council said: “Anyone using off-road bikes of any kind should ensure they are used safely and with permission, on private land only, and consideration is given to local residents around noise.

“We would encourage anyone with a plan to create a designated area for these type of bikes to look into our Green Spaces, Parks and Play Areas and Villages Investment Fund, which provides funding support and advice for projects that will benefit the local area.”