A new civic plaza, garden and events space has been created outside the Erskine Sports Centre to provide a focal point for the local community.
The new plaza includes an events space, recreational greenspace and garden, with seating areas and a natural play area. It is connected through more attractive walking routes from the town centre retail to the sports and medical centre, and out to the nearby waterfront.
The final design was developed through engagement with local people who suggested the inclusion of natural play, improved lighting on paths, infrastructure to support a Christmas tree, and fencing and hedges to border the site.
The project forms part of wider investment in Erskine town centre, creating an attractive and flexible public space that supports community activity and enhances the local environment.
Councillor Andy Steel, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, said:
It’s great to see that the new Erskine civic plaza, garden and events space is now complete. Residents told us the area was lacking a civic space for events to be held, and we worked closely with them to develop the final designs for this new space.
The new plaza, garden and events space will create opportunities for the local community to come together, hold markets and events.
We’re working hard to support the regeneration of our towns and villages, and this significant investment will make a positive difference to Erskine and everyone who lives here.
Local residents and volunteers from Erskine Arts, a cultural charity based in the Sports Centre adjoining the plaza, gathered to mark the opening of this new public space.
Ali Whitty, Managing Director at Erskine Arts, said:
We're so excited to see the completion of this new civic heart for Erskine. We've been championing something like this for years. We can't wait to host the Erskine Christmas Lights Switch On with Erskine District Rotary Club later this year, and to plan outdoor community events including live music, markets and much more.
The plaza is a space for everyone in Erskine and we're looking forward to seeing how people use it to come together.
The project represents an investment of £600,000 within the town centre and has been funded by Renfrewshire Council, the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and the Scottish Government’s Place Based Investment Programme.