Paisley to Barrhead active travel route consultation

Thank you to everyone who took part in the public consultation for the Paisley to Barrhead Active Travel Route Project. The consultation, together with the technical feasibility assessment, has helped identify a preferred route for further development. 

Preferred Route Options

Following assessment of technical feasibility, accessibility, environmental considerations, deliverability and public feedback, we’ve identified the preferred options for 3 sections of the route within Renfrewshire. 

Section 1: Old Railway Line

Preferred option: off-road route along the former railway corridor.

We’ve identified the former railway corridor as the preferred option as it:

• provides a largely traffic-free route
• offers a high level of safety
• creates a continuous and direct connection for active travel users.

This option received strong public support during consultation. 

Environmental considerations, property privacy issues, and safety measures identified during the feasibility stage will be addressed through future design development and mitigation measures. 

Section 2: Hurlet Road

Preferred option: bridge crossing.

We’ve selected the bridge crossing as the preferred option as it:

• provides a fully segregated route
• removes the need for users to cross Hurlet Road close to the roundabout 
• offers the highest level of safety and comfort for people walking, wheeling and cycling.

Consultation responses showed significant support for this option. 

Section 3: Hawkhead Connection

Preferred option: Greenway route.

The preferred Greenway alignment provides a direct and attractive connection between Paisley, Hawkhead and surrounding communities. 

It avoids several infrastructure constraints associated with alternative options and creates opportunities to improve access to greenspace, while supporting everyday journeys and access to local destinations. 

Additional documents

See the full Public Engagement Summary Report below:

We have prepared Route Plan Drawings for each section of the route to illustrate the preferred options raised from the feasibility study and concept design process. These show the key features proposed at this stage.

The drawings represent concept level proposals and will be subject to further development, refinement and technical assessment during the next stage of design. Details shown may change as the project progresses through developed design, landowner agreement, environmental assessments, stakeholder engagement and statutory approvals.

See the Route Plan Drawings below:

How we considered your feedback

The feedback we received during the consultation phase played an important role in informing the preferred route options. 

Key issues raised included:

• personal safety
• environmental impacts
• anti-social behaviour
• lighting
• privacy
• flooding
• ongoing maintenance. 

These matters will continue to be considered and addressed as the project progresses through future design stages.

What happens next

The project has now completed the feasibility and concept design stage. 

The preferred route options identified through the technical appraisal and public consultation will be progressed into the Developed Design Stage. This is expected to start during the 2027 to 2028 financial year, subject to funding and approvals.

The project team will now carry out further consultation with affected landowners and take steps to reduce the early risks identified at this stage. 

Progression of the project is subject to funding, necessary approvals, land agreements and completion of statutory assessments where required.

Future Consultation

We’ll hold a further public consultation during the Developed Design Stage. This will give you an opportunity to:

• review the developed designs in greater detail
• understand how previous feedback has influenced the proposals
• provide further comments before the project progresses towards statutory approvals and detailed design.

We would like to thank everyone who participated in the consultation and helped shape the future of this important active travel connection between Paisley and Barrhead.