Regeneration Update 2026 updated final
Renfrewshire Council · 25 August 2026
Back to Economy and Regeneration Policy Board — 25 August 2026 and its agenda
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Economy and Regeneration Policy Board On: 25 August 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Regeneration update 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 This report provides the Board with an update on progress in delivering key regeneration projects across Renfrewshire during the current year, an update on external funding and an outline of the programmes currently being developed for 2026/27. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that the Board: (i) Accepts the capital grant funding of £2,628,000 from the UK Government’s Local Growth Fund once confirmed by Glasgow City Region Cabinet; (ii) Approves the proposed allocation of spend of the Local Growth Fund once confirmed; (iii) Notes the Stage 1 Regeneration Capital Grant Fund 2027/28 applications which have been submitted to the Scottish Government; (iv) Notes progress and continuing actions to deliver projects from the range of regeneration funds identified in the report. 3. Background 3.1. In recent years, the funding of regeneration projects in Renfrewshire has relied heavily on support from national government and other external sources, often with ‘match-funding’ provided by the Council.
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PUBLIC A report to the Economy and Regeneration Board on 26 August 2025 outlined the range of external capital funds available and the programmes under development. 3.2. In this context, and over the past year, officers have continued to progress various regeneration projects, programmes, and strategies with the support of external funding from the UK and Scottish Governments, as well as government agencies such as SEPA. 3.3. This report outlines progress by the Regeneration Team in terms of regenerating and revitalising our town centres, supporting communities, and promoting sustainable economic growth across Renfrewshire. ___________________________________________________________________ 4 Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (Scottish Government) 4.1 The Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) is one of the longest-running funding streams available to local authorities, having been offered annually since 2014. Renfrewshire Council has previously secured support from this fund for projects including the Russell Institute, Paisley Learning and Cultural Hub, Houston Court in Johnstone and Paisley Museum. 4.2 The RCGF has also supported projects led by community organisations, with the grant administered by the Council. These have included initiatives promoted by Linwood Community Development Trust, Active Communities in Johnstone, and more recently the PACE Youth Theatre project in Paisley. 4.3 The RCGF is a competitive annual fund open to all 32 Scottish local authorities. It is consistently oversubscribed, meaning that many submitted projects are unsuccessful. 4.4 Following a review of the RCGF and its associated programmes, the Scottish Government issued a call for Stage 1 Expressions of Interest for the 2027/28 fund in July 2026. As with the previous year's programme, the RCGF will incorporate funding previously available through the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme (VDLIP). Projects submitted must also demonstrate their ability to be delivered during the 2027/28 financial year. 4.5 On 20 January 2026 this Board approved the creation of a portal on the Council’s website to enable third-party organisations to submit expressions of interest for RCGF funding. Following this process six expressions of interest were received, covering a range of projects from the restoration of a listed church building to the refurbishment of community centres. 4.6 Officers also considered which Council-owned properties would benefit most from the fund. Given their prominent location within Paisley town centre and their listed status, it was determined that the restoration of the Forbes Place - Kelvin House site would be the most appropriate fit. 4.7 Following consideration by the Council's Corporate Management Team (CMT), it was agreed that the Council would submit a Stage 1 Expression of Interest to support the following projects [see Table 1].
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PUBLIC Table 1 - RCGF - EOI Summaries Organisation Amount Requested Inchinnan Development Trust (IDT) £480,000 Pachedu Multicultural Hub £305,000 The STAR Project £1,300,000 Your Community Your Space (YCYS) £583,735 Western Desert Recce Group SCIO £200,000 Lochwinnoch Community Development Trust (LCDT) £900,000 Renfrewshire Council - Forbes Place / Kelvin House £3,000,000 4.8 In respect of the Forbes Place/Kelvin House bid, RCGF funding would be used to undertake essential internal repair works to enable the buildings to be brought back into viable commercial use. 4.9 Should the Stage 1 applications be successful; the Council will be invited to submit more detailed Stage 2 applications in conjunction with the other parties involved. Progress on these applications will be reported to a future meeting of the Board. ___________________________________________________________________ 5 Place Based Investment Programme (PBIP; Scottish Government) 5.1 Since 2019 the Council has used directly allocated funding from the PBIP to accelerate capital investment, supporting delivery of actions within our town centre strategies, community led regeneration proposals and community led place plans. 5.2 Through this fund the Council supported and delivered a wide range of projects across Renfrewshire including community led projects such as the creation of a community well-being hub and bike shop, restoration of various listed buildings and vacant commercial units as well as enhancements to public realm. 5.3 To date the Scottish Government has not confirmed whether there will be any future rounds of the PBIP. This has been instrumental in delivering a range of regeneration projects across Renfrewshire and officers will continue to engage with the Scottish Government as appropriate in respect of future allocations. ___________________________________________________________________
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PUBLIC 6 Local Growth Fund (UK Government) 6.1 The Policy Board of 17 March 2026 noted that the UK Government's new Local Growth Fund (LGF) has been developed to replace the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This will provide Glasgow City Region (GCR) with £60.9 million over the three- year period 2026/27 to 2028/29, comprising £42.5 million capital funding and £18.4 million revenue funding. GCR has secured 43.5% of Scotland's total LGF allocation, reflecting the scale and importance of the regional economy. 6.2 In respect of Renfrewshire, the LGF represents a new source of investment to support economic growth, regeneration and commercial development. In 2026/27, Renfrewshire will receive £483,000 of revenue funding, representing 7% of the regional allocation. This funding will help sustain business support, employability and skills activity during the transition from UK Shared Prosperity Fund programmes. 6.3 The most significant opportunity for Renfrewshire lies within the capital programme. Of the £42.5 million regional capital allocation, £20 million has been earmarked to support projects within the Glasgow City Region's Enabling Commercial Space (ECS) Programme, which focuses on delivering new commercial floor space, refurbishing existing premises and bringing forward development-ready employment sites. Under the agreed allocation methodology, Renfrewshire has been provisionally allocated £2.628 million, the fourth largest allocation across the City Region. Priority Projects at August 2026 6.4 If confirmed, this investment would provide additional resources to accelerate priority regeneration and commercial property projects across Renfrewshire. Given that the GCR is required to allocate this funding quickly, discussions with GCR officers confirmed that the funding should be focused on projects that are well advanced in terms of development and/or can be delivered within a short timescale. In this context, officers reviewed a range of potential projects and concluded that the funding should be focused on the following: 1. AMIDS (Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland) • A package of enabling infrastructure and design works to support the continued expansion of AMIDS, including a revised masterplan, new access roads and an upgraded roundabout to unlock future development plots and improve site connectivity. 2. Johnstone Town Centre Vision (Houston Court Regeneration) • As reported to this Board on 26 May 2026, a comprehensive regeneration project delivering the first phase of the approved Johnstone Town Centre Vision, focussing on the vacant former foodstore site at Houston Court. This will include demolition, site investigations, design work, statutory approvals, construction of two new business units and refurbishment of existing commercial units.
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PUBLIC 3. Industrial Property Improvement Programme • Refurbishment and enhancement of Council-owned industrial properties, including internal improvements, yard clearance, environmental mitigation measures and public realm upgrades to improve occupancy and commercial attractiveness. Future Allocations 6.5 Beyond the ECS allocation, a further £20 million has been reserved for the development of strategic regional projects, with Glasgow City Region partners currently working to identify and develop projects of sufficient scale and impact. Renfrewshire submitted several expressions of interest through this process, including proposals linked to employment land, commercial property and town centre regeneration, and discussions continue regarding potential future investment opportunities. 6.6 Renfrewshire will also benefit from the regional Net Zero Green Business Support Programme, which will provide grants of up to £10,000 to help SMEs improve sustainability, reduce carbon emissions and support business growth. Under the agreed distribution model, businesses within Renfrewshire are expected to benefit from approximately £233,120 over the programme. 6.7 Overall, the Local Growth Fund provides a significant opportunity for Renfrewshire to secure additional investment in commercial property, regeneration and business growth initiatives, while also helping to shape wider regional projects that support the ambitions of the Glasgow City Region Regional Economic Strategy and emerging regional empowerment agenda. Further clarification on how the fund will be administered was confirmed at the August 2026 Regional Partnership meeting. ___________________________________________________________________ 7 Existing projects update 7.1 Strong progress is being made in terms of delivering three major regeneration projects across Renfrewshire, which are to shortly complete. These include:- i) Ferguslie Belltrees 7.2 Transformation of 2.69 hectares of long term vacant and derelict land into a community greenspace, with new walking and cycling routes, natural play facilities, community event space, biodiversity enhancements and improved drainage. Delivering a key strand of the Making of Ferguslie Local Place Plan, works began in January 2026 and are due for completion by the end of August, with an official opening scheduled for early autumn 2026. 7.3 Belltrees represents the second major capital investment project to address long term vacant land within Ferguslie Park. The Neighbourhood Centre Activity Space, which transformed a neglected site on Bankfoot Road into a vibrant public realm, games area and community space, was completed in autumn 2025. The project has been well received by the local community and
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PUBLIC recently won Gold in in the Public Realm/Landscape category at the 2026 Scottish Design Awards. ii) Erskine Civic Plaza 7.4 Creation of a new civic plaza, garden and community events space within Erskine town centre, transforming an area of long term vacant and derelict land. Delivering the first phase of a wider landscape framework for Erskine, the space provides an events area, seating, natural play features and improved pedestrian links between the town centre and waterfront. Works started on the project in February 2026 and will be completed in August 2026, with formal opening scheduled thereafter. iii) Visitor Hub, Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch 7.5 The project involves the demolition of an outdated toilet block and the construction of a new visitor hub incorporating a cycle hire and storage facility, a seasonal visitor information kiosk, accessible public toilets and associated landscaping improvements. The development will improve the visitor experience, encourage sustainable travel and strengthen Castle Semple's role as a key gateway to the wider regional park and National Cycle Route 7. Works commenced October 2025 and will be completed by the end of August 2026. ___________________________________________________________________ 8 Upcoming Projects Update 8.1 Several regeneration projects are scheduled for delivery over the next 12–18 months. It is anticipated that these projects will deliver significant economic, social and environmental benefits to local communities and to Renfrewshire as a whole. • Johnstone Town Centre 8.2 The Policy Board of 26 May noted significant progress in delivery of the Johnstone Town Centre Vision, with a number of projects complete or moving to implementation stage. These include:- • Works to refurbish two vacant business units at Houston Court (38 and 56) returning these to productive use, due for completion in late summer 2026; • Demolition of the long term vacant former supermarket, with construction of two new flexible units on the site, alongside the creation of a new green link between the two Civic Squares, new parking, public spaces, planting and drainage. Demolition works are currently underway with construction works anticipated in spring 2027; • Promotion and preservation of Johnstone’s industrial heritage. This includes development of proposals for restoration of Johnstone Bandstand and a heritage trail which celebrates the town’s rich history. The heritage trail is anticipated to be launched in autumn 2026, while
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PUBLIC proposals for the Bandstand will be developed in the second half of 2026 with a view to delivery in spring 2027. • Renfrew Town Centre Former Police Station 8.3 Progress is being made in securing the long-term future of the former Renfrew Police Station on Inchinnan Road. The project involves the demolition of the vacant rear cell block and office extensions, alongside the removal of asbestos, dry rot and other deteriorating building elements. These works will preserve the historic B-listed frontage while addressing significant structural issues that have arisen during the building’s prolonged vacancy. 8.4 The works are intended to improve the site's attractiveness and viability for future redevelopment, while safeguarding an important element of Renfrew’s built heritage. The project represents a significant investment in stabilising the property and creating opportunities for its long-term reuse for community, commercial or other appropriate purposes. Demolition works commenced in July and are due to be completed by September 2026. Brown Institute Garden 8.5 The Brown Institute Garden seeks to honour the legacy of the former building while enhancing the town centre environment. The new garden will provide an accessible and welcoming space for residents and visitors, with seating areas and a mix of native trees, shrubs and seasonal planting. A key feature is the incorporation of salvaged architectural elements and historic materials from the building, helping to preserve a tangible connection to the site's heritage and cultural significance. 8.6 Developed following consultation with local residents and stakeholders, the project will contribute to the ongoing regeneration of Renfrew town centre while ensuring that the historic importance of the Brown Institute is recognised for future generations. The works are expected to commence in autumn 2026 and is aiming for completion in early 2027. • Linwood Town Centre 8.7 Officers have undertaken a review of the Linwood Town Centre Strategy and identified a number of opportunities for future investment, including Linwood Lade a small number of key sites within the core town centre and the potential to reflect the industrial heritage of the town. Many of these opportunities are identified in the Linwood Local Place Plan recently submitted by the Community Council. 8.8 Over the coming months, officers will work with Linwood Community Council and other local organisations to build capacity, supporting the prioritisation, development and delivery of proposals in line with the Local Place Plan.
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PUBLIC 8.9 Alongside OneRen and community groups, officers will also explore the potential for the heritage of the Hillman Imp to be celebrated in the town. They will also explore the potential to create destination statuary commemorating the life of Dugald Semple, the ‘Father of Veganism’, who lived a large part of his life in the town. • Steeple Buildings, Kilbarchan 8.10 The Steeple Buildings is a landmark Category A listed building located within Kilbarchan Conservation Area, jointly owned by Renfrewshire Council and the Kilbarchan General Society. 8.11 As reported to Board on 17 March 2026 officers are working to secure the long- term future of this important heritage asset while supporting increased activity and investment within Kilbarchan village centre. 8.12 A first phase of major repair works was completed in February 2026, delivering essential roof, stonework, chimney, rainwater goods and internal repairs to stabilise the building and ensure it is wind and watertight. The next phase of works will focus on the refurbishment and reconfiguration of the interior, including accessibility improvements, new toilet facilities, a refurbished kitchen, lift installation and repairs to the historic clock and bell mechanism. Officers are currently progressing the procurement of a conservation architect to support the phase 2 works. 8.13 The works are scheduled to start the first quarter of 2027 with the overall aim of ultimately bringing the building back into sustainable public use. • Museum Wayfinding Project, Paisley Town Centre 8.14 In advance of the Paisley Museum reopening later this year, officers are progressing a wayfinding project aimed at improving navigation through Paisley town centre, while strengthening connections between key arrival points and the Museum. The project will deliver a series of bespoke wayfinding features at important pedestrian decision points, helping residents and visitors navigate the town centre while celebrating Paisley’s unique heritage, culture and identity. 8.15 The project is planned to be delivered in two phases. The first phase will see the installation of a high-profile temporary wayfinding feature near County Square ahead of the Museum reopening. The second phase will deliver up to seven permanent wayfinding markers at strategic locations throughout the town centre, with associated seating where appropriate. 8.16 Designed to create a strong visual identity and improve the visitor experience, the wayfinding features will support increased footfall, encourage exploration of the wider town centre and reinforce Paisley's position as a welcoming and culturally significant destination. The second phase of works are due to be completed by February 2027. • Castle Semple Visitor Centre Improvements 8.17 Alongside the new Visitor Hub highlighted earlier in this report, further enhancements are planned for the entrance area and lochside path at Castle
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PUBLIC Semple. The project is being led by the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans) and will see the crossing point on National Cycle Route (NCR) 7 at the visitor centre entrance relocated further from the road junction to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians. 8.18 The works will also include improvements to and widening of the lochside path, enhancing accessibility and providing a better experience for users. In addition, a crow-shaped sculpture will be installed along NCR 7, creating a distinctive landmark and a more visually striking gateway to the visitor centre. • Lochwinnoch Cornerstones: Revitalising Lochwinnoch’s Historical Axes 8.19 As outlined in a report to the Board on 26 May 2026, officers successfully secured funding from Historic Environment Scotland and the National Lottery Heritage Fund to develop a heritage-led regeneration programme in Lochwinnoch. Cornerstones: Revitalising Lochwinnoch’s Historical Axes is proposed as an area-based scheme that seeks to support the regeneration of Lochwinnoch town centre through investment in its built heritage and promotion of the village’s history. 8.20 The funding will enable the development phase of the programme to progress. Officers have successfully recruited a project officer to lead this phase, who is expected to be in post by the end of August 2026. The officer will work with the local community, property owners and other stakeholders to develop the programme and ultimately prepare a funding application to secure support for the delivery phase of the scheme. • Candren Burn Feasibility Study, Ferguslie Park 8.21 The Board of 25 August 2025 noted the outcomes of an initial feasibility study which identified the potential for restoration and improvement of the Candren Burn, as part of the wider Making of Ferguslie Local Place Plan. Proposals are now being developed to concept design stage, with the support of SEPA’s Water Environment Fund. 8.22 This stage of the project, which is desk based, will enable more detailed analysis of options and technical investigations, supporting future consultation with local members, residents and community groups. Work commenced in summer 2026 with completion in early 2027. ___________________________________________________________________ 9 Next Steps 9.1 Officers will continue to seek out external funding opportunities to fulfil our main priority of regenerating and revitalising Renfrewshire’s towns, villages and rural locations, helping to develop places where people want to live, work, visit and spend time. 9.2 Progress on funding applications and delivery of associated actions will be reported to Board at regular intervals as appropriate. _____________________________________________________________
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PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – No additional funding is sought. All funding is accounted for within existing Council budgets and external funding. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None. 3. Community/Council Planning – Creating a Sustainable Renfrewshire for all to enjoy – delivery of projects and submission of funding applications supports the Council’s wider placeshaping agenda, improving quality of place, our neighbourhoods and town centres. 4. Legal – None. 5. Property/Assets – None. 6. Information Technology – None. 7. Equality & Human Rights - The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. 8. Health & Safety – None 9. Procurement – None 10. Risk – None 11. Privacy Impact – None 12. Climate Risk – The regeneration projects proposed include the creation of sustainable links and enhancements to green space. 13. Children’s Rights – None 14. Cosla Policy Position – None ___________________________________________________________________ List of Background Papers (a) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2022. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 14 June 2022. (b) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2023. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 23 May 2023. (c) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2024. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 19 March 2024. (d) UK Shared Prosperity Fund 2025/26. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 18 March 2025. (e) Cornerstones Project, Lochwinnoch. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 20 May 2025. (f) Regeneration Funding Bids Update 2025. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 August 2025.
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PUBLIC (g) Making of Ferguslie – Update. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 August 2025. (h) Cornerstones Project Lochwinnoch. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 August 2025. (i) Johnstone Town Centre Vision – Update. Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, 26 May 2026. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Euan Shearer; Regeneration and Place Manager; Tel 0141 6184664. Email: euan.shearer@renfrewshire.gov.uk
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