Renfrew town centre community hub proposals – have your say

Residents, businesses and community groups can back a funding bid for a new community hub in Renfrew town centre.

Renfrewshire Council has developed initial proposals which are now being shared with the public ahead of an application to the Levelling Up fund this summer.

The plans set out the refurbishment of the vacant former police station and enhancements at Renfrew Victory Baths to create a combined community facility.

Included in the hub proposals are better pool facilities and a spa and wellness centre to upgrade the offer at the popular baths which celebrated its centenary last year.

There are also plans for the hub to have a regional dance, gymnastics and fitness centre open for all ages and groups.

And alongside new community spaces, it could house a library and learning centre with digital facilities, relocating Renfrew Library into the town centre.

The public’s views will feed into a funding application in the second round of the UK Government fund, which supports investment in local infrastructure and community assets.

If successful, further detailed public consultation would be carried out to refine the proposals.

Chief Economic and Regeneration Officer George Hunter said: “Development of this town centre community hub would be a fantastic facility for local residents and visitors to Renfrew alike and we are keen to hear what people think about the initial plans.

“Complementing what’s on offer at Renfrew Town Hall, the hub would provide inclusive, modern town centre facilities everyone can access, giving people more reasons to spend local in Renfrew and importantly ensure the long-term future of two well-known, historic buildings.

“The Levelling Up fund is a competitive bid process so we are looking for local residents, businesses and community groups to complete the feedback survey and send their support.”

Cllr John Shaw – “Over the past five years myself and my colleague, Cllr Lisa-Marie Hughes, have fought several fires on the future of the baths in particular so it would be extremely pleasing to see the building’s long term future confirmed along with the rebirth of the Police Station where the decline and dilapidation has been a concern for many.”

Cllr Lisa-Marie Hughes – “I’m thrilled to see these plans to enhance two historic gems in our town, providing a variety of culture and leisure opportunities in one space. I would urge everyone with an interest in the buildings to take part in the consultation and let us know your thoughts.

Gavin Newlands MP – “These are exciting proposals and a successful bid would mean the transformation of these landmark buildings into a genuine centre of the community, providing modern facilities in a classic setting. I’ll be doing all I can to ensure these plans become reality, and I’d urge anyone who wants to see the proposals come to fruition to lend their public support as well.”

People can read more about the proposals and complete the feedback survey at www.ironsidefarrar.com/renfrew.html

Messages of support are also welcomed – these can be emailed to the project team at st**************@re**********.uk

A public exhibition is also open at Renfrew Victory Baths including weekends from Tuesday 24 May until Monday 6 June (closed Thursday 2 June), with a drop-in session scheduled from 12pm to 5.30pm on Wednesday 1 June where members of the project team will be available to discuss the proposals in person.

The Council secured more than £38million in funding in the first round of the Levelling Up fund towards improved transport links between Paisley and the manufacturing district AMIDS, which represented the third highest award across the UK.