A new Renfrewshire road bridge inspired by Scotland’s aviation pioneers has officially opened, and is set to provide connection for businesses across the White Cart River, close to Westway Park in Renfrew. 

The 70-metre Barnwell Street bridge takes its name from the Barnwell Brothers and has been built by Renfrewshire Council to link business centres either side of the river.

It forms part of a series of infrastructure improvements jointly funded by the Scottish and UK Governments through the £1.13billion Glasgow City Region City Deal which has enabled development of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS).

Located between Arran Avenue in Paisley and Wright Street in Renfrew, the crossing enables vehicles coming from Paisley to access commercial premises on the Renfrew side and gives Renfrew companies a new connection into AMIDS, Glasgow Airport and the motorway network. There’s no through road for vehicles onto Wright Street to prevent it being used as a shortcut and over time helping to reduce HGVs and commercial traffic in nearby residential areas. It also includes a public walking and cycling crossing which joins up with the growing network of cycling and walking routes across Renfrewshire

Ivan McKee, Business Minister, Scottish Government, said:

 “The opening of Barnwell Street Bridge marks a significant milestone for the Glasgow City Region Deal and for the local community. This is a vital project which will link commercial centres including the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS) and offers greater pedestrian and cyclist access. The Scottish Government is an equal partner in the Glasgow City Region Deal, committing £500million over 20 years.”