Renfrewshire Council has confirmed that construction of a new public garden on the site of the former Brown Institute in Renfrew is scheduled to commence later this year. The project aims to honour the legacy of the B-listed building that once stood in Canal Street and to create a vibrant community space.
Planning Permission and Tender Process
Hirst Landscape Architects, acting on behalf of the local authority, secured planning permission for the garden earlier this year. A tender is currently open to appoint a contractor, with work expected to begin in the coming months.
Design Features and Historical Elements
The garden will include pathways, seating, a mix of trees and plants, and architectural features salvaged from the original building. A design and access statement noted: 'The project aims to honour the legacy of the Brown Institute and provide a vibrant area for the community. During its demolition key architectural features were retained and preserved. Renfrewshire Council and the design team are working closely together to find innovative ways to reuse some of the features in order to maintain a tangible connection with the site's history and preserving cultural heritage.'
The integration of historical stones with aged texture and craftsmanship is intended to provide authenticity to the design, creating a visually cohesive landscape that respects the site's historical context and fosters a sense of place for local residents.
Community Input and Planning Assessment
In June of last year, the council sought public feedback on the designs. Recommendations included a 'Time to Talk' bench, appropriate lighting, and a litter bin to enhance usability and appeal, which were incorporated into the final plans.
In February, the planning department assessed the proposal, stating: 'The demolition of the listed building was a highly regrettable loss to Renfrew's heritage and particularly to the character of the northern part of the town centre. The redevelopment of the land to form a publicly accessible garden/open amenity space is considered an appropriately sympathetic use in this light. The incorporation of original elements of the Brown Institute building in the landscaping of the site would assist in respecting its legacy, while also adding character to the proposed garden/amenity open space.'
Background on the Brown Institute
The Brown Institute, dating back to 1903, was demolished in August 2024 after safety concerns led to its flattening. Consent for demolition was granted retrospectively by the planning and climate change policy board. The building had most recently housed a museum until its relocation to the town hall in 2011 and had remained vacant since then. The council deemed that securing the structure was too expensive and that keeping it was not economically viable.
