Johnston Civic Squares consultation

Consultation summary

Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback on proposals to enhance Johnstone Civic Squares and the connecting Houston Court precinct.  

We received a wide range of valuable input through our in-person event at 32 Houston Court and an online survey.  

Your comments have been very helpful in reinforcing the importance of:

• revitalising Johnstone’s historic squares and the Houston Court precinct
• celebrating the town’s heritage
• creating more welcoming, inclusive, and flexible spaces for all to enjoy. 

What you told us

General support

Most respondents supported the proposals and said maintenance was important, particularly the green spaces.  

Local Heritage

Respondents supported proposals that would reflect the heritage of the town and the opportunity to co-produce  new local artworks.  

They also welcomed plans to repair and enhance existing historic features, such as the Bandstand and War Memorial.

Houstoun Square

Most respondents supported the proposals for creating a better space for community activities and events, including new seating around the Bandstand.

However, some people said this would need to be designed carefully to avoid impacting on the available space for larger events.  

Some respondents also asked for additional infrastructure, like new power connections, to support more activities and events in the square.

Houston Court

Most people agreed with demolishing the vacant former food store, although some suggested it could be reused for shops.  

Those who supported the demolition, wanted work to progress quickly at Houston Court, so the site didn’t lie vacant.  

People also liked that the designs for the underpass from Houstoun Square reflected the history of the site.

Ludovic Square

People supported the proposals for:

• enhanced links between the squares and the Town Hall
• biodiverse planting
• co-production of artworks.

They also highlighted the importance of maintenance and that it should be considered as the proposals are developed further.

What happens next

We’ll now develop and cost more detailed designs for the Houston Court precinct area, as well as repair works  to the Johnstone Bandstand.

Once we have Board approval, we'll apply for permission to demolish the vacant former food store at Houston Court.

We’ll also start refurbishing the remaining vacant units within Houston Court precinct, so they can be used as shops and retail premises.

We’ll share progress and the final proposals when they are ready.