GRAHAM has commenced work on a £22.68 million East Renfrewshire Council project to deliver improvement works to Aurs Road between Barrhead and Newton Mearns.
The road is now closed until December 2024, with it set to be transformed from a winding, single carriage road to a safer and straighter one.
The project will also see the creation of a new 2km active travel route, 4km circular walking and cycling route around Balgray Reservoir, and a waterside promenade overlooking the reservoir.
Once complete, the council said the improvements will bring about a safer and more direct route between Barrhead and Newton Mearns, as well as paving the way for new visitor facilities at Dams to Darnley Country Park.
Led by the local authority, the £22.68 million project received £12.72 million from the Glasgow city region city deal, with the rest of the funding provided by Transport Scotland, the Scottish Government’s bridge fund, and developer contributions from new housing developments in the area.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark the start of works, with East Renfrewshire Council leader Owen O’Donnell meeting with the GRAHAM team at the event.
Mr O’Donnell said, “Since announcing our plans for transforming Aurs Road, we’ve had a fantastic response from residents who are excited about the delivery of a much needed improved and straightened road with active travel link. The artist’s impression really helps people visualise what a transformative impact this project will have for generations to come and while the road closure will no doubt cause inconvenience over the next year, the end result really will be worthwhile for all.
“It’s been fantastic to meet the team from GRAHAM onsite and hear about the significant community benefits they plan to deliver including; jobs for local residents, apprenticeships, work experience, career events and support to local community projects.”
Jim Armour, GRAHAM contracts manager, added, “We’re delighted to be officially starting work on transforming Aurs Road – to an improved and straightened road with active travel link. This is a project our team is proud to be delivering, and we recognise the importance it will have for residents and users. We look forward to working collaboratively with East Renfrewshire Council, stakeholders and the local community throughout this scheme – leaving a lasting legacy”.
