Paisley Photographs

Photographs raise questions about the future of Belltrees as Renfrewshire Council promises a greener, safer and more attractive Ferguslie Park.

Renfrewshire Council previously announced an investment of more than £600,000 to transform derelict land at Belltrees in Ferguslie Park, promising new greenspace, play areas, walking and cycling routes and an improved environment for the local community which is nearing completion.

But photographs documenting activity at the site raise a more pressing question: what is being done to tackle the problems that risk undermining the area’s regeneration?

While the Council’s plans focus on creating a space for residents and visitors to enjoy, concerns over vehicles being raced and stolen cars being burned out highlight the challenges facing the area.

A new landscape and improved facilities may transform the appearance of the site, but residents also need reassurance that the land will be protected from antisocial behaviour and dangerous activity.

With substantial public investment going into the project, it is reasonable to ask how the Council intends to ensure the improvements are maintained and remain safe and accessible for the community.

The Ferguslie Park Greenline – Belltrees project forms part of The Making of Ferguslie, a long-term regeneration programme intended to transform underused land and deliver lasting benefits for the neighbourhood.

The improvements nearing completion include 2.69 hectares of greenspace, a natural play trail, an event space, native planting and new pedestrian and cycle routes.

These are welcome additions, but regeneration cannot be measured by landscaping alone. The long-term success of the project will also depend on tackling the behaviour that damages public spaces and undermines residents’ confidence in their neighbourhood.

The question Renfrewshire Council now needs to answer is simple: what measures will be put in place to protect this investment and prevent the site from becoming a location for dangerous driving and the burning of stolen vehicles?

Residents deserve to see regeneration that works not just on paper, but on the ground.