People’s awareness of the West End Growing Grounds Association (WEGGA) charity has surged after it switched its location to Underwood Road.

Housing provider Sanctuary worked with its contractor CCG and Renfrewshire Council to move the charity’s allotments from nearby Sutherland Street.

The highly visible improvement works are a community benefit of the wider regeneration of Paisley’s west end.

John Wilby, WEGGA’s honorary secretary, said: “In Sutherland Street, we had two adjacent sites but here everybody’s together. It’s created a much more cohesive community where people can come and grow their own food but also enjoy the company.

“One of our concerns in this area has been social isolation. A lot of people live alone and we have members now who are getting involved for the first time. Our proximity to the ring road has attracted a lot of attention. We anticipate that the existing waiting list will quickly grow to fill the remaining raised beds.”

A short film on the project

The Scottish Government and Renfrewshire Council are working with Sanctuary to create new housing in Paisley’s west end. By moving the gardening space Sanctuary can now press ahead with plans for further affordable homes on WEGGA’s former Sutherland Street site.

Local resident and WEGGA member Fay Potts said: “This is a much better venue. I have met a lot of people I would otherwise not have encountered, including people of other nationalities.

“Weekends are particularly interesting. People bring food, cake, tea and coffee and we sit over in our little seating area. We talk, exchange tips and learn about each other’s lives. It’s lovely.

“It’s more than just a place to grow things, it’s a place to meet.”