Supporting documents - Renfrewshire Council

Knockhill Park Pre-Planning Application Consultation Report
5.6 The residents divided into 2 groups the first, which was the smaller group probably accounting
for 10 to 15 residents, did not wish to see any proposed regeneration of Knockhill Park. This group of
people reasoned that as the Park had a long history of attracting groups who indulged in anti social
behaviour, that any increase in usage would lead to an increase in the incidence of anti social
behaviour with an associated reduction in the quality of life of local residents. It was discussed that
the proposals would markedly improve both the facilities and usage of park by people of different
age groups, and hence there would be greater vigilance by user groups and this would assist in
reducing the level of and opportunities for anti social behaviour. This contention was not accepted
by the group.
5.7 The remainder of the residents were of the opinion that they could see some merit in the
regeneration proposals but unless there were robust management proposals developed to ensure
that the regenerated park was adequately protected and maintained and measures were taken to
minimise the opportunities for anti social behaviour, then they could not support the proposals. I
The group were informed that the Council, the Police and the steering group were currently
considering management arrangements as detailed proposals were required to be submitted as part
of the Stage 2 Lottery Application. However the group reiterated that they would not support the
proposals until they were given details of the planned management arrangements.
5.8 The ownership of the land comprising Knockhill Park. Several residents were of the view that
when land was donated to ‘the people of Renfrew’ it was done with restrictions and therefore the
Council would be breach of these restrictions by undertaking such a significant project within the
park. It was explained that this matter would be referred to the Council’s Legal Team for
clarification.
5.9 Several residents expressed concern regarding the increased traffic on the streets surrounding
the park caused by the increased usage that the regeneration programme would bring. They raised
such issues as the need to install traffic calming measures and introduce parking restrictions to
protect their local environment. It was discussed that the Council would probably instruct a survey
of the area by their roads staff as an element of the ongoing development of the project.
5.10 Several residents expressed concerns regarding some of the proposed activities and facilities
planned for the park. Some residents were concerned about the proposed 7 a side football park
which is currently to be sited 20 yards away from domestic dwellings, and they were concerned
regarding the resultant potential for noise and bad language. Other residents raised concerns
regarding the planned performance area as the seating to be used for young people to congregate
with the resultant potential for anti social behaviour.
5.11 Several residents expressed a concern over the incidence of criminal behaviour currently taking
place in the park, mainly fire raising and drug dealing, and remarked that an increase in usage,
particularly by young people, would result in an increase in these activities. It was remarked that this
was a matter which could be directed to police and community safety staff.
5.12 Residents enquired into the role and composition of the project steering group and several
residents requested that membership be extended to include a representative of the residents of
the area immediately surrounding Knockhill Park
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