THE centre of Clydebank could be transformed thanks to new funding to make it better suited for public transport and pedestrians.

A key section of Glasgow Road will see the central reservation removed, junctions removed and raised platforms to pavement level to encourage pedestrian crossings.

The work is designed to improve the links between the town centre, the upcoming Queens Quay development and the town’s shops and public transport.

Sustrans Scotland has committed £2 million to the project to make a “more attractive route” from the town centre to Queens Quay and encourage walking and cycling, said West Dunbartonshire Council.

Work on the former John Brown’s shipyard begins within weeks starting with remediation work to prepare for road infrastructure and public spaces on the waterfront.

Overhauling Glasgow Road was named as a priority in consultations with the community, who will be able to attend a community information event when the new design is ready.

Council Leader Martin Rooney said: “It is exciting to the see the progress which is now being made to make the Queens Quay development a reality. This site is so important for our redevelopment plans and has the potential to be a flagship for the whole of Scotland and put our area on the map.

“This funding from Sustrans Scotland will allow us to move forward with the plans for improving the links with the town centre and ensure Queens Quay becomes a bustling community hub. By creating improved access routes to Queens Quay and making it easier for people to move about the town will be so beneficial for Clydebank.”

Further funding of £44,000 has also been provided through Sustrans Scotland‘s Community Links Programme to improve the cycling route from the Forth and Clyde Canal to Queens Quay.

David McBride, vice convener of infrastructure, regeneration and economic development, added: “The design charrette in Clydebank was a huge success and I’m delighted that we are now delivering what the community asked for.

“It was important to develop a community-led vision for the future of the town and this project to transform Glasgow Road was highlighted as being a major priority. As well as creating better links with the Queens Quay development it will offer improved walking and cycling routes which will benefit our residents.” The council pledge £15.62m to the 23-hectare Queens Quay project, which is expected to take more than a decade to fully develop.