Calls made to reopen Paisley underpass amid 'road safety concerns'

The route on Bankhead Avenue has been closed for a number years, meaning pedestrians need to walk along Hawkhead Road in the area when trying to access Seedhill Road from nearby estates.

Councillor Will Mylet insists some residents have raised fears about walking along the busy road due to the speed of traffic.

He said: "Work needs done underneath the underpass as it has been closed for so long.

"My understanding is the local authority, who are keen to carry out the maintenance, just need to be given permission by Network Rail to do so.

"I have been in contact with various council officers about this for a long time and they have been in touch regularly with Network Rail over the last two years.

"However, things have been a bit slow recently and council officers have not heard back from the organisation since July 20.

"I am keen to get this project moving as safe walking routes are very important.

"The current route is particularly unsafe for those with prams and mobility scooters."

The underpass is currently closed to residents (Image: Councillor Will Mylet)

Councillor Mylet insists that opening the underpass would make the area "safer" for pedestrians (Image: Newsquest)

Renfrewshire Council has money ringfenced for the underpass to be reopened through funds that were made available from Taylor Wimpey and Miller Homes as part of the deal for the developers to build in the area.

However, Mylet is concerned that if the work on the underpass is not actioned soon then the money might end up getting allocated elsewhere.

He continued: "It is vital that things start to move quickly on this project.

"The funds are there, the local authority is keen to action the work, we just need better communication.

"This money has been available for a number of years and it would be really disappointing if we lost it because of inaction.

"I believe that this work being carried out could save lives long term.

"Locals would benefit immensely from this underpass being opened and I look forward to seeing the project get off the ground once the council is given the ok.

A spokesperson for Network Rail Scotland said: "We recognise the importance of a safe and accessible route here for residents and are supportive of reopening the underpass.

"There are a number of internal processes to follow before any final agreement is reached to ensure any work undertaken is safe and doesn't impact the railway.

"This is ongoing and we're committed to engaging with Renfrewshire Council throughout."