ONLINE ISSUE 311 DEC 2020

temporary cycling routes [cont]
Full details of each route are available now on the Council’s Spaces
for People cycle routes webpage and as the Bridge of Weir to
Houston route has been added to the programme, an online survey
is open until Sunday 20 December for more detailed feedback.
There are also webinars on each route being hosted by the design
consultants, with the Bridge of Weir to Houston webinar at 7pm
on Thursday 3 December and the Howwood to Paisley webinar
scheduled for 7pm on Thursday 10 December. Anyone wishing to
participate in either webinar can email ei@renfrewshire.gov.uk and
they will be provided with the joining instructions.
Councillor McEwan added: “We are working hard to hear from
anyone with an interest in these routes and are contacting local
businesses directly to ensure we’ve considered their needs.
“These are the first routes we are bringing forward and next year
we hope to share the developed designs for others. While they
are temporary measures, if they prove popular then we can look
at more detailed discussion and consultation to develop them into
permanent cycling routes as it’s so important we enhance the
active travel opportunities across Renfrewshire.”
The Spaces for People Fund is managed by Sustrans who give
tailored support to successful projects to assist with the planning
and delivery of the new temporary infrastructure.
Tim Aeberli, Infrastructure Coordinator, said: “Sustrans is delighted
to see the delivery of the first two Spaces for People-funded popup
cycle routes in Renfrewshire gathering pace. Bridge of Weir,
Houston, Howwood, Johnstone, Elderslie and Paisley will benefit
from safe, segregated links which will make it easier to walk, cycle
or wheel while maintaining physical distancing.
“We look forward to hearing feedback on the proposed routes,
and to find out how the new routes will support you for safe and
active journeys to schools, workplaces and essential shops in your
area.”
As part of the feedback process, residents, schools, businesses
and communities are being asked for their opinions – as are key
active travel organisations across the country.
Clare Skelton-Morris, Communications & Monitoring Manager at
Cycling Scotland said: “During lockdown, we heard from so many
people how much of a difference cycling was making to their
health, enjoying cleaner air, quieter roads and reduced feelings of
stress. As we continue to battle against Covid-19, getting outside
and active is more important than ever to look after our physical
and mental health.
“We’re encouraged to hear these safe cycling routes are being
introduced in Renfrewshire and hope, longer-term, that these
routes may be developed into permanent, protected and inclusive
infrastructure, which is the highest priority to enable more people
to cycle.”
For more information on the proposals, visit www.renfrewshire.
gov.uk/SpacesForPeopleCycleRoutes.
local community, local life ............... 44
get ready for winter weather
With colder, wetter weather approaching, homeowners and
businesses are being asked to identify whether their area is at risk
of flooding and, if so, ensure they are ready in advance. As part of
its #RenReady campaign, the council are encouraging residents to
take proactive steps to avoid flooding damage, including:
• Creating a list of useful numbers such as the council, emergency
services, electricity and insurance companies;
• Checking gutters and drains around their property are clear
and reporting public drains in need of attention;
• Being ready to switch off gas and electricity supplies should
this be required;
• Ensuring everyone living or working in the property knows
what to do should flooding occur by creating a Flood Plan;
• Following up to date weather reports so that they’re not caught
out by adverse weather.
In the event of severe flooding, residents can check for localised
updates via the council website and social media, or via the
Floodline Service on 0345 988 1188. Flood Alerts and Warnings are
also posted live to SEPA’s website at sepa.org.uk/floodupdates
Councillor Cathy McEwan, Convener of RC’s Infrastructure, Land
and Environment Policy Board, said: “Unfortunately as winter
approaches, this brings darker nights and harsher weather. So, it’s
important that we are all prepared to deal with the effects of heavy
rainfall and know what to do if it arrives, especially if you live in an
area prone to flooding.
“We’re working hard to ensure that areas we know are at risk are
prepared in advance by clearing drains and trying to divert the
natural flow of water - but we can also provide you with support in
an emergency. You should create a flood plan so you’re not caught
out and do all you can to protect your property from the risk of
flooding. As always, we’re available to support you and offer advice
so please get in touch if you need assistance.”
Renfrewshire Council is working with the Scottish Environment
Protection Agency (SEPA) and the SEPA website has information
on how best to stay safe, including a postcode map outlining the
flood risk in each area.
Vincent Fitzsimons, SEPA’s Head of Hydrology and Flooding
Services, said: “While you can sign up for Floodline at any time
it’s important you have time to understand what those messages
mean - and what you can do in advance of rainfall. We want to
encourage people to make the time to visit sepa.org.uk/signup and
get registered. If you’re not online you can also call Floodline on
0345 988 1188.
“There’s a wealth of information available at floodlinescotland.org.
uk to help you prepare, including what to do before, during or after
a flood. There’s advice for your homes, your business and you travel,
with links to key sources of information. Don’t wait until flooding’s
at your door, sign up to Floodline now and make sure you’re ready
before you need to be.”