A bid has been launched for almost £3.5 million in funding which would put Johnstone and nearby villages at the centre of an ambitious regeneration project.
The masterplan could see the town linked with Kilbarchan, Bridge of Weir and Houston through a circular route – using existing footways and cycle paths and the restoration of historic buildings such as the Steeple Hall.
Renfrewshire Council has applied to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) for money to develop the project with a complimentary bid to be submitted to Historic Environment Scotland (HES) within a matter of weeks.
The move has been praised by councillors who hope the plans – if successful – will revitalise the communities and their landmarks.
Councillor Andy Doig, an independent rep for Johnstone North and Kilbarchan, said: “This should provide the first major upgrade of the Steeple Hall for decades and help the council showcase one of its most iconic buildings in Renfrewshire.
“It was built around 1755 and became the first village school and has a bronze statue of Habbie Simpson, the famous 16th century village piper.”
The initial application is for a development phase, which would run until March 2024, allowing the council to work with community groups and develop a more detailed application for full funding.
Should that be secured, the project would run from 2024 until 2029 with a total budget of £3.45m.
Councillor Gillian Graham, Labour rep for Johnstone North and Kilbarchan, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity through local consultation to identify historic buildings which, with significant new investment, can be refurbished and brought to life.
“This will allow future generations to enjoy built heritage while fulfilling the needs and aspirations of our current communities.”
Her ward and party colleague, Councillor Chris Gilmour, said the funding would “make a real difference” to buildings in the area.
He added: “When I think of areas like Ludovic and Houston Square in Johnstone – the latter with its landmark bandstand and fountain – I see where that investment could make a real difference, drawing people to the town centre and increasing footfall.
“This would be good for business and enhance its social amenity, making it a place for people to go and enjoy.”
Councillor Emma Rodden, the SNP rep for Johnstone North and Kilbarchan, said she was “delighted” the council had submitted the applications.
She said: “If these proposals are able to come to fruition, we will protect our historic buildings for future generations and encourage greater cultural tourism and footfall in our towns and villages.”
A council spokesperson told the Paisley Daily Express: “If successful, the project would link Johnstone and the three villages through a circular route which would make use of existing footways and cycle paths, while exploring the history of each place.
“It would also include the repair and restoration of historic buildings and outdoor spaces in the Kilbarchan conservation area and Johnstone town centre, plus a community engagement programme celebrating the history of the four places, a traditional building skills programme, and a maintenance programme to help owners of historic buildings look after their properties.
“The project would follow in the footsteps of the current townscape heritage and conservation area regeneration scheme – also funded by the council, NLHF and HES – which has helped transform a number of historic buildings and outdoor areas in Paisley in the past few years, while also celebrating the town’s unique heritage.”
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