Concerns have been raised that vandalism could delay the completion of new communication hubs designed to provide members of the public with access to vital emergency and information services.
The units are currently at the first phase of infrastructure installation, but already appear to have become targets for vandals.
One of the units has suffered damage to the top section, while another has already been covered with graffiti and even Renfrewshire Council attaching unconnected notices — raising concerns over whether further vandalism could affect the project and potentially delay the units becoming fully operational.
When completed, the communication hubs are expected to provide a range of facilities for the public, combining emergency services, communication and local information in a single unit.
Among the planned features are touchscreens, emergency call buttons, wireless charging shelves, USB charging points and a telephone handset for public use.
The units will also incorporate solar panels and touchpad technology, while built-in live-feed capabilities are expected to allow members of the public to access information including social media updates and public transport information.
Perhaps most importantly, the hubs will also contain a defibrillator, potentially providing a vital piece of lifesaving equipment in an emergency.
The technology is intended to give the hubs a number of different uses, providing members of the public with access to information, communication facilities and emergency equipment.
However, with the units already showing signs of damage and graffiti before the project has even been completed, there are fears that continued vandalism could prove costly and delay the introduction of the facilities.
The hope will now be that the units can be protected from further damage and brought into full operation as planned, allowing the community to benefit from the wide range of services they have been designed to provide.
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