Work to convert part of the site of the former Royal Ordnance Factory at Bishopton into a 45-acre community park has begun.

Part of BAE Systems’ wider Bishopton regeneration programme, the new Central Park will sit at the heart of Dargavel Village development.

It will feature two play areas, including a climbing forest, 2,000 newly planted trees and more than two miles of paths running through the park.

Grasslands, wildflower meadows, several burns, and ponds with 3,600 new wetland plants will also be added.

Eight public entrances to the park will be built and will provide a venue capable of hosting the annual Bishopton Day gala.

BAE Systems is working with Scotland’s nature agency, NatureScot, to encourage thriving ecosystems and provide new habitats for diverse native wildlife species to live on or near to the Dargavel Village development.

The public are set to be given access to the new park from 2026.

Ground was broken during a ceremony on Friday attended by Paisley and Renfrewshire North MP, Gavin Newlands, Renfrewshire North and West MSP, Natalie Don, and Heather Morton and Liz Pollard from BAE Systems.

Liz, managing director of BAE Systems’ Shared Services, said: “We’re pleased to enhance the area for the local community and the delivery of Central Park is a key element in our regeneration programme.

“The park is designed to be a high-quality public area and a vibrant community hub where families and friends can meet, children can play, and people can enjoy nature.”

Gavin Newlands, Paisley and Renfrewshire North MP, added: “Green spaces are widely known to have a lasting positive impact on individuals, improving physical and mental well-being, as well as on communities by bringing people together.

“Central Park will be an incredible asset not only to the local community in Dargavel and Bishopton but also to the whole of Renfrewshire. As a local resident, I look forward to enjoying the park with my family for years to come.”