A community group credited with helping transform parts of Houston and Crosslee over the past decade is set to be recognised by councillors this week.
Renfrewshire Council will consider a motion on Thursday, 14th May, celebrating the 10th anniversary of Bee Happy Houston and recognising the group’s contribution to environmental improvement, biodiversity and community wellbeing.
The motion, lodged by Councillors Robert Innes and Audrey Doig, praises volunteers for their work improving local green spaces, supporting community clean-up projects and encouraging wider participation in environmental action across Renfrewshire.
Over the last ten years, Bee Happy Houston has become well known locally for litter picks, tackling fly-tipping, planting flowers and trees, maintaining public spaces and organising volunteer-led environmental projects across the village.
The motion also recognises the group’s involvement in the council’s “Team Up to Clean Up” campaign and the wider impact volunteers have had on community spirit.
Councillor Robert Innes said: “Bee Happy Houston reaching its ten year milestone is a fantastic achievement and I wanted to highlight that.
“The group has made a real difference to Houston through years of dedicated volunteering, improving the environment and bringing people together in a really positive way.
“I encourage continued support for community driven environmental initiatives across Renfrewshire through existing Council programmes and partnership working, recognising the value of empowering local volunteers to shape and improve their own neighbourhoods.
“Bee Happy Houston have set the standard for what can be achieved through Renfrewshire Council’s Team Up to Clean Up campaign. Having met the group I know the bonds and friendships that have formed and how getting out and making where you live look beautiful has benefitted their own health and wellbeing.”
The council motion states that Bee Happy Houston has helped enhance local biodiversity, improve green spaces and strengthen community spirit over the past decade.
Jake Fulton, a founding member of Bee Happy Houston, said the group was proud to be reaching the milestone anniversary.
He said: “We’re incredibly proud to be marking ten years of Bee Happy Houston and everything our volunteers have achieved together during that time.
“What began as a small group of local people wanting to improve the village has grown into a real community effort that has helped make Houston and Crosslee cleaner, greener and more welcoming places to live.
“Beyond the environmental improvements, the friendships and sense of community that have developed over the years have been just as important.
“It’s been wonderful to see people come together, support one another, and take real pride in where they live.”
The motion will go before full council on Thursday morning at Renfrewshire House in Paisley.
If you would like to get involved Bee Happy Houston can be contacted via the Bee Happy Houston Facebook page, here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/896316512286357/ or at beehappyhouston@outlook.com.
