High praise for East Ren Council

The council picked up three awards and two commendations — more than any other authority in Scotland, and nearly 20 per cent of those given out on the night.

Picking up top prizes were the Barrhead Waterworks and the Barrhead South Masterplan, as well as for planning guidelines on community contributions about new developments in the area - guidelines which the judges said were transferrable to all councils.

ERC also received commendations for Barrhead Foundry and planning guidelines on green network and environmental management.

Councillor Tony Buchanan, convener for infrastructure and sustainable growth, said: “This is a fantastic achievement by the planning and economic development teams.

“For a small council like East Renfrewshire to be recognised like this is outstanding. To take nearly a fifth of the honours up against much bigger councils is a testament to their work and commitment - many congratulations to everyone involved.”