Multi-million pound investment to improve Clydebank's play areas

CHILDREN across Clydebank will have it all to play for thanks to a £3 million fun-funding scheme.

A series of new play areas have already been created at a cost of £1 million and councillors at the infrastructure and regeneration committee approved plans for a further £2.2 million of projects which will enhance play facilities at an additional 23 sites in West Dunbartonshire.

The next phase of developments, which is being funded from money set aside for community improvements in this year’s budget, include new play areas in New Bonhill, Haldane, Christie Park, Tullichewan, Dumbarton Common, Overburn, St Helena Crescent, Goldenhill Park and Linnvale.

This will be followed by a further phase including a new play area in Balloch, a skate park in Bonhill and a new all-weather games area in Goldenhill Park, Hardgate.

Residents in the areas where these improvements are planned will be asked for their feedback on the proposals and, if there is community support, work is scheduled to begin in the next 18 months.

Councillor Patrick McGlinchey, spokesman for infrastructure, regeneration and economic development, told The Post: “We’re building a better West Dunbartonshire and alongside large developments such as new schools, we’re also improving the environment in our communities through smaller scale developments.

“The play areas and sports pitches help foster a sense of pride and of place. We’ve already invested significant funding in these types of projects, we know how popular these developments are with our families, and that’s why we’re determined to create even more.”

Councillor David McBride added: “We’re working with our residents to improve communities and enhance opportunities for play and sport.

“We fully appreciate the benefit of sport and play for our young people and these new developments will provide even more challenging, safe and stimulating outdoor areas for them.

“By the time these latest projects are complete every community in West Dunbartonshire will have access to enhanced play facilities.”