A HUGE sum of cash is to be invested into play parks across Renfrewshire over the next few years.

It comes after Renfrewshire Council announced almost £5million will be invested into play areas by 2026 as part of a programme designed to provide fun and inviting places for youngsters.

The funding will go towards either installing brand-new equipment as part of a full renewal of the play park or refurbishing existing equipment to enhance the current play environment.

Since 2021, more than £2.7million has been invested by the council, the Scottish Government, and a small amount of community fundraising, in 25 play parks, with a further £995,000 to be invested in 2023/24.

While the government has also confirmed a further £461,000 will be invested in 2024/45 and £768,000 for 2025/26.

In total, £4.9million will be invested into play parks across the area over the next few years.

Play parks that have been included in the 2023/23 programme are Charles Avenue, Urquhart Crescent and Victory Gardens in Renfrew; Benston Place and Miller Street in Johnstone; Park Mains in Erskine; and Netherhill Road in Paisley.

Refurbishments will also take place this year to the play parks at Howwood Toddler Park, Houston Public Park, and Inchinnan Playing Fields.

Councillor Michelle Campbell, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Infrastructure, Land and Environment Policy Board, said: “The importance of providing safe, inviting places for outdoor play cannot be underestimated and I’m extremely proud of the investment we’re making in our play parks.

“These are safe havens for local families and provide young people with the opportunity to have fun, get active and meet new friends.

“We have already provided brand-new play parks in every council ward area and we’ll continue to do all we can to enhance the play experience for young people outdoors in Renfrewshire – I can’t wait to see the latest set of play parks undergo their upgrades.”