AN overhaul of tennis courts in Johnstone has been welcomed.

SNP Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, for Johnstone South and Elderslie, is pleased with the progress made on the upgrade.

Renfrewshire Council has refurbished the old blaes courts into a hard surface using Lawn Tennis Association funding.

Also, new fencing has been installed around the courts, with the opening planned for spring.

The Gazette: Renfrewshire Council has replaced the old blaes courts with a hard surface Renfrewshire Council has replaced the old blaes courts with a hard surface (Image: Councillor Jacqueline Cameron)

Cllr Cameron said: "The site was full of faults before and you really couldn’t have played on it, so it’s great to see the work done so far.

"Although it’s been cold the weather has been kind, work has progressed well, and it looks a lot better already."

The improvements are part of a broader initiative to encourage residents to be more active in support of "building back better" after Covid.

READ MORE: 'It's turned my life around': Fitness programme is a hit with residents

"You can’t just lob money at the wall, but this is a very positive project for the town," Cllr Cameron said.

Now, she has started identifying other sections of the tennis court site for enhancement.

She said: "That’s three separate areas which have been improved quickly – which makes me want to see a better use for the old BMX track to complete the set."

The Gazette: Refurbished courts are set to open in Spring Refurbished courts are set to open in Spring (Image: Councillor Jacqueline Cameron)

Currently used by dog walkers, the potential for the old BMX track remains largely untapped, according to the local official.

Cllr Cameron said: "I’d be keen to hear from anyone who has an idea how it can be used.

"Once there’s an idea the community are behind the search for funding can begin.

The Gazette: Councillor Jacqueline Cameron hopes to inspire work on the BMX track Councillor Jacqueline Cameron hopes to inspire work on the BMX track (Image: Councillor Jacqueline Cameron)

"That’s always the hard part, but the sooner we start the better."

The lower bowling green also received attention after accidental damage by the council, and the recent collapse of an old Park Road wall created a rebuilding opportunity.

Cllr Cameron said: "Whether by accident or design, there’s been more work done in the last six months than the last 20 years."