Residents of Renton have always been proactive in the development of their community and two years ago decided to set up a trust with this sole purpose in mind.

Renton Community Development Trust was established as a direct result of comments made by members of the community during a consultation exercise.

The aim of the trust, which is managed by a board of 10 community members, was to coordinate the various activities of Cordale Housing Association and the Carman Centre, ensuring issues in the village were addressed.

It was instrumental in establishing The Renton Addiction Problem Service in Renton and its other successes include assisting in the formation of local tenants associations as well as youth and community groups.

The trust, which is a member of the Development Trust Association for Scotland,  is now looking at the economic development of Renton and how it can improve employment prospects in the village.   

The trust is always looking for new people to become involved. Call into the offices at 171 Main Street, Renton, or telephone 01389 603572.

Ma Centre was opened in June 2008.  The Centre was formerly known as the Renton Community Education Centre, which was closed by West Dunbartonshire Council last year.  The Renton Community Development Trust is now the proud new owner of Ma Centre and run the Centre on behalf of the Renton Community.

A range of clubs have started using the Ma Centre such as the boxing club, the Vale of Leven Radio Hams, a karate club, a slimmer's group and more.  The Centre has also helped to set up a new Renton FC football team.  There is also a gymnasium and a cafe.

Ma Centre still needs extensive refurbishment works to bring it up to a modern standard.  The Renton Community Development Trust, Cordale Housing Association and the Carman Centre have developed business ideas that will make it possible for the Centre to generate a sufficient income for the years to come.  However, these ideas will need the community's approval and we are now looking to get as many local people involved in the future of Ma Centre.  If you want to get involved, have any ideas for Ma Centre, would like to become a trustee or help the Renton Community Development Trust, NOW is the time to get involved.  Ma Centre is the place to come along to and have your say - GET YOUR VOICE HEARD!

The Renton Community Development Trust is particularly keen to recruit people with business experience to come on board - could you be that person?

For more information please contact Archie Thomson, Ma Centre, 30 Main Street, Renton, or by telephone on 01389 710261 or by email archie@rcdt.co.uk.