Renfrewshire Council is asking local residents, businesses, and community groups to share their thoughts on plans for a new public garden at the site of the former Brown Institute in Renfrew.
The garden is designed to reflect the history of the Brown Institute while creating a welcoming space in the town centre, featuring circular walkways, seating, and a variety of native trees, shrubs, and seasonal plants. The plan also includes repurposing materials from the old building.
A consultation event will take place on Tuesday 10th June 2025, from 1pm until 6.30pm at Renfrew Town Hall, where council officers will be available to discuss the proposals and gather feedback from the community.
Councillor Andy Steel, Convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Economy and Regeneration Policy Board, said: “We recognise the strength of feeling that local people had for the Brown Institute and while it was unable to be retained, we want to ensure it has a legacy within the town.
“The proposals set out a desire to create a public garden with seating, pathways and nature and we’re looking for local people’s views as we develop the final designs.
“Please come along to the in-person event if you can or provide your feedback online before the deadline.”
The consultation closes on 22nd June 2025.
Feedback received will be used to inform the next stage of design development as the council aims to deliver a new green space for the local community.
Feedback can also be shared online at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/brown-institute and paper surveys will be available at Renfrew Town Hall and Renfrew Library.
Photo: Computer generated graphic of how the garden may look
Image Credit: Supplied by Renfrewshire Council