Port Glasgow residents grow new woodland in Slaemuir

Slaemuir Tenants' and Residents' Association are working on the ground-breaking new project with housing body River Clyde Homes.

Volunteers and staff recently came together to sow the seeds of the success on the venture, with around 400 shoots planted.

It is hoped will give Slaemuir a greener future.

Slaemuir TARA secretary Jamie McGowan, who works in nearby St Stephen's High, said: "It is fantastic that people are going to have this on their doorstep.

"It is about making the area an even better place to live and giving people access to woodland.

"This means that people can come and enjoy their surroundings.

"It will make a big difference, and it is also about protecting the environment."

He was joined on the day by a team from RCH maintenance arm Homefix, led by Derek Robertson and ground maintenance co-ordinator Trisha McGlynn.

Members of the RCH senate, a group of tenants who scrutinise the performance of the housing association, were also out lending a hand, with Andrew Hurrell and Irene Howe pitching in.

River Clyde Homes has pledged to contribute towards increasing biodiversity by encouraging wild habitat and meadows.

Local councillor Chris Curley, who was involved in the project and sits on the RCH board,  said: "This is a great initiative and will have a good impact for residents living in Slaemuir. "

The project is being funded by RCH and the Woodland Trust.

Home Fix environmental services manager Mr Robertson said: "This is really going to improve the area of Slaemuir and bring about much needed biodiversity in the surrounding environment."