Local people invited to have their say on proposed Brown Institute garden

Renfrewshire Council is inviting local residents, businesses and partners to have their say on proposals for a public garden on the site of the former Brown Institute in Renfrew.

The proposed garden aims to recognise the heritage of the former Brown Institute by creating an inviting public space which enhances the town centre environment with pathways, seating and a mix of native trees, shrubs and seasonal plants – with the proposals planning to reuse materials from the previous building.

Local people are invited to an in-person consultation event on Tuesday 10 June 2025 from 1.00pm – 6.30pm at Renfrew Town Hall where council officers will be available to discuss the proposals.

Feedback can also be shared online at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/brown-institute and paper surveys will be available at Renfrew Town Hall and Renfrew Library.

Councillor Andy Steel, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, said: “We recognise the strength of feeling that local people had for the Brown Institute and while it was unable to be retained, we want to ensure it has a legacy within the town.

“The proposals set out a desire to create a public garden with seating, pathways and nature and we’re looking for local people’s views as we develop the final designs.

“Please come along to the in-person event if you can or provide your feedback online before the deadline.” The consultation closes on 22 June 2025, with all feedback received used to inform the next stage of design development as the council aims to deliver a new green space for the local community.