East Renfrewshire Council cancels the Neilston and Uplawmoor Community Link, citing budget and project concerns.
Neilston and Uplawmoor trusts collaborated on the project. They engaged with landowners and other stakeholders since 2019, working alongside designers and East Renfrewshire Council (ERC).
Sue Scott stated ERC and Sustrans withdrew their support, jeopardizing the project. Sustrans supports cycling routes across the UK, making this a significant setback.
The planned path would’ve provided safe access to the countryside, away from traffic pollution. Uplawmoor residents could have easily reached Neilston, and short trips within Neilston would have become more convenient.
The project team expressed their disappointment with ERC and Sustrans’ withdrawal of support. Subsequently, the working group met with ERC staff to discuss their project concerns.
The group acknowledges budget pressures impacting government at all levels. They recognize this makes it difficult to secure staffing for extended periods and understand that short-term investment may not sustain services effectively.
The working group voiced frustration and anger, feeling the Link project was unfairly disadvantaged. They suggest the Link didn’t have an equal opportunity, claiming it wasn’t valued or prioritized.
They relied on ERC’s backing and adhered to the established guidelines and local leaders initially showed enthusiasm. Their planning was thorough, following Sustrans’ procedures, and securing financial and political support.
The Link suffered setbacks due to budget cuts and shifting priorities. The team believes they could have addressed issues and managed expectations more effectively with earlier and clear communication from ERC.
Ultimately, the Link failed due to process issues and a broader culture problem. The group believes skilled professionals need to collaborate effectively with local populations to create meaningful and lasting change.
ERC stated they can’t continue with the project in its current form, citing complex issues. While numerous paths are included in the local development plan, ERC currently lacks the resources to build anything.
Sustrans’ Places for Everyone program, backed by Transport Scotland, initially funded the project. As the Sustrans program closes in December 2025, Transport Scotland will directly fund councils instead, leaving ERC to decide the fate of community projects.