Project to restore derelict land in Paisley takes step forward with cash boost

A project that will restore almost three hectares of derelict land in Paisley’s Ferguslie Park will help tackle anti-social behaviour in the area, it is hoped.

Renfrewshire Council has been awarded £650,000 of Scottish Government cash to deliver the regeneration of the Belltrees site into a multi-functional green space.

Two new shared pedestrian and cycle routes have been planned, as well as a natural play trail, event space and landscape features, enhanced biodiversity and drainage improvements.

Councillor Kenny MacLaren, an SNP representative for Paisley Northwest, believes the initiative could deter issues such as fly-tipping and dirt bike use.

He said: “It’s good news that Renfrewshire Council has been awarded the funding from the SNP Scottish Government to work on the Belltrees project in Ferguslie Park, which will restore 2.69 hectares of derelict land and create a new multi-functional green space.

“At the moment, this area has been used for fly-tipping or by people using dirt bikes, creating a nuisance and mess for local residents.

“The transformation of this site will hopefully cut down on such antisocial behaviour while creating a new community space for the residents of Ferguslie.”

Funded from the vacant and derelict land investment programme, designs are set to be completed this summer, with construction expected to begin in early 2026.

The regeneration project is part of ‘The Making of Ferguslie’ which is a long-term, community-led framework developed in partnership with residents to reimagine the area and deliver lasting change.

Approved by the council in December 2021, the plan sets out a shared vision for Ferguslie Park, with a focus on transforming underused land, enhancing greenspaces and supporting local initiatives.

At the centre of the regeneration is the Ferguslie Green Line – a green corridor and public realm spine that will connect key parts of the neighbourhood and provide a vibrant space for residents.

Councillor Andy Steel, SNP convener of the economy and regeneration policy board, said last week: “The Making of Ferguslie is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when we work hand-in-hand with our communities.

“I’m delighted that we have been awarded such a significant amount of funding to support the Belltrees project as this will make a visible difference to the area and will help create a greener, more connected and vibrant Ferguslie Park for generations to come.”

The first project to emerge from the Green Line is the Neighbourhood Centre at Bankfoot Road and this activity space is transforming vacant land into a games and recreation area, framed by a tree-lined boulevard that links to schools and the Tannahill Centre – with construction expected to finish this summer.