RSPB Lochwinnoch will land a windfall from the council’s villages investment fund for the installation of a wooden gazebo and other improvements at the site.
The plans follow the opening of a modular building at the reserve entrance, which offers a small shop and reception area, during the summer.
Elected members rubbed-stamped a grant of £19,236.89 (£13,820.49 capital and £5,416.40 revenue) to the conservation charity at the communities and housing policy board on Tuesday.
Councillor Gillian Graham, a Labour representative for Lochwinnoch, was among those who welcomed the recommendation.
She said at the meeting: “The reserve is visited by thousands of visitors every year, both locally and nationally, and it brings much-needed income into the area and to village businesses.
“I’d also like to applaud the staff and volunteers for their enthusiasm and hard work and their creativity in the work that they’ve been doing recently and also protecting and restoring the natural habitat.”
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A report discussed at the board explained the background to the RSPB’s decision to put up a gazebo at the nature reserve.
It said: “For over 45 years, the wooden visitor centre at the RSPB reserve has provided a welcome entry point for guests and volunteers.
“In July 2025, the structure was condemned due to extensive rot and is scheduled for imminent demolition.
“To maintain a presence on site, RSPB has installed a modular building at the nature reserve entrance, providing a small shop and reception area.
“Adjacent to this, visitors can currently make use of outdoor café-style tables and chairs, offering a space to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and engage with volunteers.
“To enhance visitor experience, RSPB proposes to install a 13ft wooden gazebo beside the seating area.
“This structure would provide sheltered space with picnic benches, creating an all-weather area for volunteers and visitors to rest, learn and connect.
“The requested funding would support the installation of the gazebo, along with the creation of a whin dust path, fencing and materials for a viewing platform.
“The platform will offer an improved vantage point for observing the abundant wildlife across the reserve, further enriching the visitor experience.”
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Councillor Iain McMillan, Labour group leader and representative for Johnstone South and Elderslie, added: “It’s a terrific facility leading on to the wider park itself.”
He continued: “When you go past it, it’s extremely busy.
“Not only do they go to that facility, they go further on to the larger park and there are walks within that area as well.
“I’ve said it at this committee and at other committees as well, it’s really a gem within Renfrewshire.
“People come from all parts to come and see it, so I’m delighted to see this coming forward.”
The villages investment fund aims to support investment in infrastructure and place-based projects that support and strengthen the identity, heritage, uniqueness and integrity of villages across Renfrewshire.
