The dilapidated entrance to a Johnstone school will soon look as good as new after councillors agreed to award a £250,000 contract for repairs.

John McGeady Limited will upgrade the entrance to St Anthony’s Primary, in Hallhill Road.

The road planning, surfacing and civil engineering company is to reconstruct and realign the car park and resurface the area.

Workers will also apply new road lining, install fresh lighting and create a lay-by for parents to pick up and drop off pupils.

The school entrance is currently overgrown with brambles and the road is in poor condition.

It is hoped the work will help to relieve congestion which has built up around the school at peak times in recent years.

Repairs are expected to begin at the end of June and be completed by mid-September.
Councillor Andy Steel, who represents Johnstone South, said: “It’s been a long haul to get this one over the line.

“We first approached officers about this more than two years ago but, with lockdown, everything was put on hold and timetables went up in smoke.

“After the demolition of St Cuthbert’s High, the erection of houses on Scholars Green and years of work to refurbish the school inside and out, the entrance off Hallhill Road is the final piece needing to be done.”

Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, who also represents Johnstone South, added: “I hope a more practical design of the entrance will allow parents using cars to come in off Hallhill Road, drop off or pick up safely and then make their way home.”

“With Hallhill Road being resurfaced in April, this will also give that road surface a bit more longevity.

“It’s also important that new lighting be installed, for the safety of everyone using the area.”

The repairs have also been welcomed by Lewis Nesbitt, of the Spateston Tenants and Residents Association.

He said: “We’re pleased Renfrewshire Council has kept to its word and will be giving St Anthony’s an entrance reflective of the investment inside the school.

“This redesign will be crucial in managing the congestion we have seen on Hallhill Road, which we know is a great concern within our community.”