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A popular tourist spot in Renfrewshire is set to benefit as more than £700,000 is invested in a new cycle hub, information kiosk, public toilets and landscaping improvements.
Castle Semple in Lochwinnoch is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, walkers and cyclists, with the centre linking into National Cycle Route 7 and being a gateway to the wider Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.
Work is underway to demolish the previous facility as the project starts to deliver a new cycle hub which will store bikes for hire, as well as new seasonal information kiosk and brand-new accessible toilets to support visitors and residents.
To minimise waste and promote sustainable building practices, salvaged wood and slate from the demolition is being recycled and reused in the new building.
Councillor Andy Steel, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, said: “I’m delighted that Castle Semple is benefitting from such significant investment as it is a hugely popular destination for residents and visitors alike and I’m especially pleased to see a sustainable building ethos at the heart of the work.
“The new cycle hub will be a great addition, as will the seasonal information kiosk, as we aim to attract more people to not only Castle Semple, but the wider Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park too and this investment will make a positive difference to what is already a fantastic facility.”
The project is being funded through the Scottish Government’s Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP), the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and The Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) established by the Scottish Government and managed by VisitScotland
Lynne Cooper, VisitScotland’s Regional Director, said: “The project at Castle Semple aims to enhance the visitor experience for those walking and cycling in the Lochwinnoch area.
“VisitScotland is focused on the responsible growth of tourism and events. To be a sustainable tourism destination, we must encourage the right facilities to cater for the growing demands of both visitors and locals.
“The new cycle hub facilities and improved access to the area should make it easier and safer for walkers, cyclists and wheelchair users to enjoy the scenery and nature of this popular beauty spot.” It is expected that the project will be complete in Spring 2026.
