A group of community volunteers has been praised for its planned work in creating a heritage garden in a Renfrewshire village after funding was approved.

Kilbarchan Smile has landed £23,416 for the project in Ewing Street which aims to celebrate the area’s rich history and talent through the transformation of a run-down site.

Councillor Andy Doig, an independent representative for the village, believes the initiative could act as a first step in developing a cultural quarter in Kilbarchan.

He said: “I want to praise Kilbarchan Smile for their vision and dedication to creating a heritage garden which is of wider importance not just to Kilbarchan but to other villages in West Renfrewshire as well.

“The council’s tourism strategy is officially reaching out from Paisley to rural Renfrewshire and this small park project is part of a much bigger positive picture for all our village communities.

“A heritage park would tie in very well with current consultation in the village about the future use for a renovated Steeple Hall, with many Kilbarchan folk being of the view that a heritage-based option for the Steeple Hall would be very positive.

“This new park could also link in with both the Steeple Hall and the Weaver’s Cottage as part of a wider arts and cultural hub.”

The funding award was given the green light by elected members at last Tuesday’s communities and housing policy board.

A report discussed at the meeting shed light on the background of the project.

It said: “Kilbarchan Smile are seeking to create a heritage garden on Ewing Street as a focal point in the centre of the village, celebrating Kilbarchan’s rich history and local talent.

“The site, currently uneven and grassy, with overgrown vegetation and a tired bench, will be transformed into a fully accessible heritage garden.

“The garden will present interpretation boards celebrating local talent, a relevant sculpture, new seating, heritage plants will be kept onsite which were traditionally used by local weavers to dye fabrics, and a new path laid to enable full accessibility.”

Councillor Gillian Graham, a Labour representative for the village, told last week’s board: “This heritage garden came as a result of public consultation and makes use of a disused or derelict piece of land in the centre of the conservation area.

“I know from talking to residents that there is a great deal of support for this project.”