Welcome cash boost for wildlife garden project

The Barrhead growing project was named the best in Scotland in a Grow Wild public vote, winning dedicated activists and school children the considerable cash windfall.

The aim of the Waterworks project is to tranform an abandoned sewage works in Dunterlie into an industrial wildlife area, using derelict sewage tanks as experimental plantersfor Scottish wild flowers.

Led by East Renfrewshire council, Barrhead high pupils and older residents involved in the local Still Game group have been working hard to secure the funding, and hope to revitalise the area, bringing residents of East Renfrewshire and beyond in to enjoy a stroll among native plants.

Councillor Tony Buchanan, convener for infrastructure and sustainable growth, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for our residents.

“The funding will rescue land which has been lying derelict for 30 years and transform the site into something really special.

“Thanks to everyone who has supported the project to make it a reality — I’m looking forward to seeing the Waterworks become an area of natural beauty for all to enjoy.”

The Grow Wild campaign focuses on areas in need of regeneration, and is supported by the Big Lottery Fund, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, greenspace scotland and Youth Scotland.

Andrew Ormston, of Grow Wild Scottish projects, said: “I’d like to extend a congratulations to the Waterworks in Barrhead.

“The team has worked incredibly hard to develop plans for an inspiring and interesting development that has gained support, not only from the community, but from people across the country.”