Paisley Photographs

Linwood could see two fascinating parts of its history celebrated in new and imaginative ways, with a statue of Dugald Semple proposed as a potential new landmark for the town.

As part of ongoing work alongside OneRen and local community groups, officers will explore the potential for celebrating the heritage of the Hillman Imp, the iconic small car which has an important connection with Linwood.

The Hillman Imp became a familiar sight on Britain’s roads after production began at the Rootes Group’s Linwood factory in 1963, with thousands of cars rolling off the production line during its years of manufacture.

Now officers will look at how that important industrial heritage could be remembered and showcased in Linwood, helping to tell the story of the people and communities whose lives were closely connected with the famous factory.

But the proposals could also recognise another fascinating figure from Linwood’s past.

A statue commemorating Dugald Semple, described as the “Father of Veganism”, is being proposed as a possible piece of destination statuary for the town.

Semple lived a large part of his life in Linwood and became a pioneering advocate of vegetarianism, simple living and self-sufficiency. A permanent statue could provide a lasting tribute to his life while creating a new point of interest for both residents and visitors.

The proposal would give Linwood the chance to celebrate two very different aspects of its heritage — from the roar of the Hillman Imp production line to the remarkable life of a man whose ideas were far ahead of their time.

Whether through a Hillman Imp-inspired landmark, a proposed statue of Dugald Semple, or other forms of public art, there is now an opportunity to ensure that some of Linwood’s unique history continues to be remembered for generations to come.