A review of capital investment plans has led to £19.2m (previously clawed back as recession began) being reallocated.

Renfrewshire council's decision to release this cash means a majority of its delayed projects will be reinstated and completed.

More than £10m will go on modernising schools. Another £2.2 million is earmarked for roads and street lighting.

There will also be £3 million for maintenance and repair of council facilities, £2 million to complete the north Renfrew flood prevention scheme and £1.3m will fund town-centre improvements in Paisley and Johnstone.

Councillor Derek Mackay added: "The cash covers a range of areas in Renfrewshire and it's great that the money is being used to help town centres at this important time — despite the tough economic climate".

Mum-of-two Eileen Russell from Johnstone feels that this injection of almost £20 million into re-starting stalled civic projects is "great news".

She told The Extra: "My son went to Castlehead high and while it was being refurbished the pupils were transferred to Johnstone high.

"And Johnstone itself has been refurbished too, and I think it's great that this work will continue for other buildings that need to be upgraded.

"I know a lot of parents with children starting high school and they're very pleased about the environment being fresh and new".

The roads and street lighting aspect is "a priority" according to council leader Derek Mackay.

Accountant Adam Fisher (48) agrees that much work is needed on Renfrewshire's roads.

He told The Extra: "Paisley's roads especially are dangerous to drive on with the size of the potholes and can cause damage to cars.

"Holes that are filled in are not done properly or dug out fully before filling — and it comes back out after a short time.
"Many's the time I've felt something might rupture in my car because of the uneven ground.

"In my opinion, £2.2m seems a small amount to deal with this problem".