A NEW state-of-the-art activity area for children and young people has officially opened in Erskine.

The play park – one of the most innovative in Scotland – is next to the Bargarran and St John Bosco joint primary school campus.

Among its features is a ‘Memo Activity Zone’ with seven interactive posts featuring a touchscreen, LED display and sound, which people can use to play different games individually or as a group.

This interactive equipment has been designed for those in primary five and upwards but is set to provide fun for all the family.

There is also an interactive dance arch, while a DJ booth and sound system offer a hang-out spot where teens can chill and mix music with friends.

A zip wire, shelter and outdoor gym equipment have also been put in place – all key asks from young people as part of a consultation run by Erskine Youth Council (EYC).

Beth Paton, vice-chair of EYC, said: “I’m so excited that the play park is open, as it’s a project we’ve worked long and hard to achieve, so we are excited to see it finally coming together.

“It’s something totally new and different to the area and lots of different people will be able to use and enjoy it.”

At the official opening on Sunday, representatives from EYC were on hand to give out free goody bags, listen to residents’ feedback, answer questions and hear any ideas for sessions and events which could be held there.

Both EYC and Renfrewshire Council’s community learning and development team have been involved in bringing the idea to fruition since 2019, carrying out surveys in schools in Erskine and the surrounding area.

These surveys reached more than 500 children and young people.

Funding for the project was achieved through a £50,000 grant from the local authority’s Green Spaces, Parks and Play Areas and Villages Investment Fund, as well as £110,000 allocated by the council to replace the former multi-use games area at the site of the new joint campus.

Councillor Michelle Campbell, the council’s Young Persons Champion, said: “This is a fantastic addition to Bargarran and I can see it being hugely popular with young people from across Renfrewshire and beyond.

“The new interactive equipment makes it an exciting place to visit, whether that’s to use the DJ decks, dance arch or even just chill out in the new shelter.”

“It could not have happened without the great work of EYC and our Youth Services team and it is brilliant to see young people so enthusiastic to make the lives of their peers better.

“I’m delighted our funding could help make the play park a reality.”