A new walking and cycling project is set to improve travel options.
Construction will soon begin in Inchinnan and Erskine, thanks to a £1.6m investment from the Scottish Government’s Active Travel Infrastructure Fund.
The project includes extending the existing path network from the Red Smiddy Roundabout north on to Southbar Road and up to Southholm Roundabout.
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Fiona Hyslop, cabinet secretary for transport, said: “I’m pleased that Renfrewshire Council is now taking forward these ambitious active travel improvements, supported by investment of £1.6m from the Scottish Government.
“By improving crossings, widening pavements and creating new paths, it will make it easier and safer for people to walk, wheel and cycle between key destinations across Inchinnan and Erskine.”
The works begin on February 2 and will include installing a zebra crossing on Southbar Road at the Red Smiddy Roundabout.
Work will then carry on beyond Southholm Roundabout, delivering a raised footway connecting to the existing overbridge across the A726, improving direct access to Park Mains High School, Erskine’s shopping area and all the connected footpaths which form part of Erskine’s safe walking routes.
The expanded network will also support Erskine’s safe walking routes.
The Red Smiddy shared path is expected to be completed by summer 2026.
Fiona Hyslop said: “To help local authorities across the country to deliver on their ambitions, the Scottish Government is investing more than £188m in active and sustainable transport in 2025/26.
“In doing so, we’re helping more people to save money, improve health and reduce emissions.”
To allow construction to proceed safely, temporary traffic lights will be in operation along the route in phases.
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Councillor Iain Nicolson, leader of Renfrewshire Council and local ward councillor, said: “The need for more pavement access in Erskine is something that’s been regularly raised with us.
“The continuation of the Red Smiddy walking and cycle path will expand the network in the area and improve the ability of local residents to move about safely alongside our main roads for walking, wheeling and cycling.
“Once complete, it will provide safer options for people living, working and visiting the area as well as direct access to Park Mains High School and Erskine’s shopping area and to and from places of employment like Inchinnan Business Park.
“We are aware there may be some level of traffic management involved and we will work to minimise this where we can.
“Once completed it’s another missing link in making sure our roads are as safe as possible for all users.”
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