Service Update Report
Renfrewshire Council · 5 November 2025
Back to Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board — 5 November 2025 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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PUBLIC To: Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board On: 5 November 2025 Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Heading: Service Update Report 1. Summary 1.1 This report provides an overview of key service activities since the last Policy Board report on 27 August 2025 and an update on the services and key projects delivered during this period. 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board: 2.1 Notes the wide range of activities provided in the service update. 3. Background 3.1 Environment, Housing & Infrastructure provides essential services to every household in Renfrewshire and works in partnership with the local community, other service areas and Community Planning Partners, to deliver key Council priorities and initiatives. A progress update on the main activities delivered by the services in respect of the areas of activity delegated to this Policy Board, is detailed below.
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PUBLIC Updates for Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board 4. Community Development 4.1 Team Up to Clean Up/ Environmental Taskforce 4.1.1 Spotless September 2025 brought together schools, local residents, and businesses to clean up their neighbourhoods and promote civic pride. Over the course of the month, 322 litter picks were undertaken, with 1,219 volunteers, including over 500 young people from schools, guides and Scouts. Young volunteers helped improve the appeal of local spaces while learning about the negative impact of litter in their communities, to local wildlife, and on the planet. 4.1.2 The Friends of Hawkhead Cemetery arranged a well-attended clean-up event on the weekend of the 20 September continuing their work to keep the paths within the cemetery clear of natural debris and improve the overall presentation. Team Up to Clean Up supported the event by donating tools, and gardens caddies as well as Neighbourhood Services offering a large skip to facilitate composting of collected debris. The group organised their final event of the year which took place over the weekend of the 25 and 26 October, another well attended and successful clean up. 4.1.3 The campaign’s online Facebook platform now connects with more than 8,500 active community members, with membership and engagement continuing to grow each week. 4.1.4 The Environmental Taskforce has invested in new fixed cameras, which have been deployed at identified fly-tipping hotspots across Renfrewshire. These have already proven effective in reducing incidents at their current sites. In addition, rural cameras remain in place to monitor locations without access to power, continuing to target fly-tipping in more remote areas. 5. Fleet, Roads, and Transportation 5.1 Fleet Services 5.1.1 Fleet Services has recently expanded its vehicle provision with the addition of four new buses - two 17-seaters and two 23-seaters, each equipped with the latest Euro 6 emission-standard engines. These vehicles will be deployed within the Social Transport Service, supporting both Education and HSCP teams in delivering essential transport for service users. This investment not only enhances the quality and reliability of the fleet but also supports Renfrewshire Council’s commitment to achieving Net Zero targets.
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PUBLIC 5.1.2 Social Transport has become a full member of the Community Transport Association (CTA). This nationally recognised membership scheme promotes high standards in minibus and bus driver assessment and training. Membership provides the Council with enhanced access to Section 19 permit applications, specialist driver training such as MiDAS (Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme) and Train the Trainer programmes, as well as free access to expert advice on passenger transport legislation, further strengthening the safety and professionalism of our transport operations. Roads & Transportation 5.2 Roads Capital Investment Programme 5.2.1 The major traffic signalised junctions of Broomlands Street and Maxwellton Street in Paisley have been upgraded with LED traffic signal infrastructure and footway and carriageway resurfacing. A second phase of resurfacing at these junctions at George Street, Canal Street, Maxwellton Street and Lounsdale Road are programmed for Spring 2026. Craigielea Road, Renfrew and 2.5 kilometres of Barnsford Road from St James Interchange to Inchinnan Drive has been resurfaced during September. 5.2.2 The footway resurfacing programme consisting of 31 footway schemes recommenced in September 2025 and will run to March 2026. 5.2.3 Roundabout improvements as part of the Roads Capital programme for 2025/26 started at Barnsford Road and Inchinnan Drive as part of the carriageway resurfacing works. The roundabout upgrade programme, which looks to transform, tired, overgrown roundabouts, into tidy, easily maintained assets, that will enhance the road network, rather than detracting from the road network. 5.2.4 Below is the of roundabouts to be improved during 2025 and 2026: • Hurlet Road at Grahamston Road, Paisley • Beith Road at Cochranemill Road, Spateston • Ferry Road, Bishopton • Inchinnan Road at Sanderling Road, Glasgow Airport • A761 at John Neilston Avenue, Paisley • Barrhead Road at Hawkhead Road, Paisley • Kings Inch Road at Laymoor Avenue, Renfrew • Inchinnan Road at Argyll Avenue, Renfrew • Greenock Road at India Tyres, Inchinnan • Newshot Drive at Parkway, Erskine 5.3 Ready for Winter 5.3.1 The service commenced winter resilience arrangements on the 1 October 2025, and this will run through until May 2026. Our winter gritting network routes have been reviewed using route management software to deliver a number of benefits including route optimisation and in-cab satnav technology.
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PUBLIC 5.3.2 This has allowed us to rationalise our routes, reducing fuel consumption and associated carbon emissions. The service has taken delivery of a treatment liquid for winter treatment of the Renfrew Bridge as normal grit salt will have a corrosive effect. 5.3.3 In addition, the Road Operations team are principally responsible for ensuring that the requirements of the Renfrewshire Council Winter Maintenance and Severe Weather Plan are met. This includes the maintenance of our flood prevention schemes and pumping stations, clearing priority grids, and monitoring river levels. Road Operations take the lead role in our proactive and reactive maintenance approach to dealing with drainage issues, flooding incidents and pothole repairs. 5.4 Street Lighting Capital Investment Programme 5.4.1 The contract for new street lighting installation on Main Street Lochwinnoch has been awarded. Works have been delayed due to festive lighting and now planned to start in January 2026. 5.4.2 The first phase of street lighting column replacements has seen over 200 columns installed and over 60 underground cabling loop replacements completed throughout Renfrewshire. A second phase of lighting column replacements has been awarded in October 2025. 5.5 Active Travel & Infrastructure Improvement Update Cycle Parking 5.5.1 An initiative has commenced to install cycle parking stands in key Town and village centres to support active travel and improve accessibility for cyclists. These stands will provide secure, dedicated parking for short stays, encouraging cycling as a practical mode of transport for shopping and other local activities such as visiting cafés, attending community events, accessing libraries, and using leisure facilities. 5.5.2 Location identification has been completed for Paisley Town Centre (3 stands on Causeyside Street near George Street and 3 stands on Glasgow Road near Crossflats Crescent) and Renfrew Town Centre (3 stands on High Street at ALDI and 3 stands at Dunlop Crescent). A similar exercise is being carried out in Johnstone Town Centre at the moment. The programme will then progress across Linwood and Eskine and the Villages to determine suitable locations in other centres. The initiative is expected to increase convenience and security for cyclists, promote sustainable and healthy travel choices, and enhance footfall and accessibility to local businesses and services. Further updates will be provided to board as the initiative progresses.
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PUBLIC 5.6 Renfrew Bridge Update 5.6.1 Since recording started on 21 June, more than 1 million cars have crossed the bridge, as well as over 26,000 cyclists and 45,000 walkers and runners, with the bridge becoming a vital travel link enhancing connectivity and supporting sustainable travel across the region. 5.7 Paisley to Barrhead walking and cycling route feasibility study & concept design project. 5.7.1 Renfrewshire Council is leading, in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council, in progressing the development of a new active travel route between Paisley and Barrhead. This strategic initiative aims to establish a high-quality walking, wheeling, and cycling corridor along a disused railway line that crosses the boundary between both council areas. 5.7.2 The proposed route will form part of the National Cycle Network (NCN) and is identified as a key link within the draft Regional Active Travel Strategy developed by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT). The route will connect to the existing NCN at Ben Nevis Road in Paisley, with onward access westward to Renfrewshire’s towns and villages, and eastward towards Glasgow. 5.7.3 Following a briefing meeting with elected members, over the coming weeks, a period of public and stakeholder engagement is planned to provide an opportunity to give feedback on the options under consideration. 5.7.4 Further information about the engagement activities will be published soon on council’s webpage and via social media, we will also be contacting local residents by letter with all pertinent information. 5.8 Elderslie for Everyone Project 5.8.1 We are now in the third of five project stages, commencing the developed design continuing on from the concept design stage which has been completed. Within this stage we will continue to gather feedback on the design from the community and prepare more technical information to inform the developed design stage. Ongoing public communication will happen throughout the process. 6. Neighbourhood Services 6.1 Play Park Update 6.1.1 Contracts were awarded at the end of September for the renewal of four play areas: • Robertson Park (Main Play Area), Renfrew • Stuart Road, Bishopton • Poplar Avenue, Johnstone • Campbell Street, Johnstone
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PUBLIC 6.1.2 In addition, works include a brand-new play area at East Fulton, Linwood and a partial refurbishment of the bottom play area at Ferguslie Gardens, Paisley. It is anticipated that some of these works will begin in December 2025, with all projects expected to be completed by the end of March 2026. 6.1.3 A tender was issued at the end of October 2025 for the renewal of two play parks and the installation of two outdoor gym facilities, with submissions expected by mid- December. The tender includes play area upgrades at KGV Playing Fields, Renfrew and Robertson Park (Craigielea Road), Renfrew. In addition, through continued collaboration with the #YouDecide Team, two brand-new outdoor gyms will be delivered at Poplar Avenue, Johnstone and Lochwinnoch Public Park, Lochwinnoch. Installation of all four facilities is currently scheduled for late Spring 2026. 6.1.4 Following an extensive consultation process, a contract has been awarded for the transformation of the existing red blaes BMX track at Barshaw Park, Paisley, into a modern, all-concrete pump track. Completion of the new facility is expected in early 2026. 6.2 Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park 6.2.1 The busy summer season of recreation and wellness activities has concluded, but services continue year-round. Autumn highlights include support for the Cycle Arts Festival Renfrewshire, held mainly along National Cycle Route 7 between Paisley and Lochwinnoch, celebrating cycling, nature, and sustainability through arts and performance. 6.2.2 Castle Semple Country Park participated in the Beat the Street initiative, hosting Beat Boxes from 10 September for six weeks to promote engagement with themes of health, nature, and community across Renfrewshire. 6.2.3 The Dark Skies Viewing Programme, in partnership with OneRen, has resumed for autumn/winter. The next stargazing event is scheduled for Monday 10 November 2025 at Muirshiel Country Park. 6.3 Cemetery Update 6.3.1 Project Search is a Council initiative which supports young people with a learning disability and/ or autism to get vocational and employability experience. Through this programme, a young person began a placement at Hawkhead Cemetery in September where they will get valuable experience within a workplace environment, and this will also help improve their levels of confidence and self-esteem to assist them move into employment. This is the third candidate to gain this experience, following the success of the two previous participants. 6.3.2 The Council’s cemetery web pages have been refreshed to include details on registered Memorial Masons and updated bereavement service forms. New signage is proposed for all nine cemeteries and will direct visitors to this online information. The procurement process for this is underway.
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PUBLIC 6.3.3 A specialist inspection revealed that the Glen Cinema Memorial at Hawkhead Cemetery requires repairs. It has been fenced off for safety, with work expected to be completed by the end of the year. 6.3.4 Path repairs were completed in Kilbarchan and Hawkhead Cemeteries during September and October. Additional drainage and carriageway repairs at Hawkhead (Section O) are scheduled for early 2026. 6.4 Neighbourhood Services - Winter Maintenance Programme 6.4.1 The Neighbourhood Services Winter Maintenance programme focuses on key winter readiness activities within our communities of hedge cutting, tree care, leaf and vegetation management, sweeping arterial roads and roundabouts. The programme will run through to April 2026, aligning with the return of the grass- cutting season. This approach ensures year-round, proactive maintenance of Renfrewshire’s outdoor environment. 6.5 Additional Open Space Enhancement Projects – Progress Update 6.5.1 As outlined at the May Infrastructure, Land and Environment Board, the service continues to progress additional open space enhancement projects. The table below outlines the current progress for each initiative within scope. Project Current Status KGV Playing Fields, Renfrew – Play Area Renewal Tender submissions expected by December; installation planned for Spring 2026. Fountain Gardens, Paisley – Robert Burns Statue Refurbishment Conservation report updated; refurbishment works instructed. Completion anticipated by Spring 2026. Tinto Square, Renfrew – Wheelchair See- Saw Installation Installation scheduled for completion by late October. Park Road, Johnstone – Dog Exercise Area (adjacent to Tennis Courts) Currently in procurement; installation expected in Spring 2026. Robertson Park, Renfrew – Pond Refurbishment Specification completed; progressing to procurement stage. Poplar Avenue, Johnstone – Outdoor Gym Tender submissions expected by December; installation planned for Spring 2026. Wallace Monument, Elderslie – Refurbishment Specialist condition survey commissioned in late September; final report due December/January 2026. Corseford, Johnstone – New Small Play Area Project still being considered and further update to follow.
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PUBLIC 7. Waste Services 7.1 Waste Collection Method Update 7.1.1 As reported to the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board in August 2025, the service is now using new route management software and in-cab technology to gather detailed data on waste collection routes across Renfrewshire. This data will inform the design of new collection routes to improve service efficiency. 7.1.2 While data collection is underway, the project team has identified gaps within the existing dataset that must be resolved before new routes can be implemented. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure the accuracy of future routes and to reduce the risk of missed collections. 7.1.3 In parallel, further work is required to integrate the system with the new website. This will allow residents to access their updated bin collection calendars online, including accurate collection dates, downloadable PDFs, email reminders, and iCalendar files for mobile devices. This work is ongoing and is progressing towards the implementation of new collection routes in early Summer 2026. 7.1.4 Online collection calendars will be available for existing collection routes from December when the current collection calendars expire. 7.1.5 Integrating the system with the website will equip the service with enhanced tools to improve performance in managing missed bin reports. The system introduces functionality that strengthens verification processes, ensuring residents can only submit missed bin requests, associated with their specific collection arrangements for that week. At present, a significant number of incorrect reports are received through the online system, as a missed bin of any colour can be reported at any time. These new tools will help reduce inaccuracies and improve overall service efficiency. 7.2 Review of Assisted Collection Service 7.2.1 As detailed at the Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board in August 2025, the service is currently reviewing the Assisted Collection Service to ensure support is provided only to households that genuinely require it. In addition to eligibility, the review also considers bin placement to ensure bins are located safely and are accessible by collection crews, helping protect our staff and improve service reliability. 7.2.2 Currently, around 5,467 residents receive an assisted collection service. The review to date has identified that some no longer require this service or are not eligible, with 532 assisted collections have been removed following reassessment. The review is being carried out on a ward-by-ward basis, and updates will be provided to elected members to keep them informed of progress in their wards.
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PUBLIC 7.3 Materials Recycling World (MRW) National Recycling Award 7.3.1 Waste Services has been shortlisted in the Best Food Waste Initiative category at the National Recycling Awards, in recognition of the Food Waste Project funded by the Recycling Improvement Fund. This category celebrates organisations that have achieved success in preventing, reducing, reusing, or recycling food waste. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 25 November. 7.4 Festive Working Arrangements 7.4.1 The festive waste collection schedule for the upcoming year is now in place. Properties affected by changes will receive written notification, and full details will also be available on the Council’s website. 7.4.2 Please note that all five of the Council’s Household Waste Recycling Centres will close at 4pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and will reopen at 8am on 27 December and 3 January. 8. #YouDecide 8.1.1 Seven of the fifty successful #YouDecide projects remain, with steady progress being made. Work is ongoing and completion reports will be submitted individually as each project reaches its conclusion. #YouDecide projects currently in progress are: • Roundabout improvement schemes in Renfrew, Bishopton, and Kilbarchan • Activity/Heritage trails in Inchinnan and Kilbarchan • Car park and path improvements at Gleniffer Braes • Outdoor Gym installations at Poplar Avenue, Johnstone and Lochwinnoch Park. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – Any financial elements referenced in this report will be progressed through the Council’s financial & budget planning process. 2. HR & Organisational Development – None 3. Community/Council Planning – The report details a range of activities which reflect local community and council planning themes. 4. Legal – None 5. Property/Assets – None 6. Information Technology – None
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PUBLIC 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. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored. 8. Health & Safety – None 9. Procurement – None 10. Risk – None 11. Privacy Impact – None 12. Climate Change – there are a range of actions and activities throughout the Service Update Report which support the Council’s Plan for Net Zero. 13. Children’s Rights – None 14. Cosla Policy Position – None List of Background Papers: None Author: Gordon McNeil, Director of Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Email: G ordon.mcneil@renfrewshire.gov.uk