The site at Watchmeal Crescent has been transformed from a neglected open space to an area where it is hoped residents young and old will be able to spend time.

Locals gathered on Saturday (July 26) to enjoy the new play zone, landscaping and community art features.

During the design process, Knowes Housing Association (KHA) worked with residents with the aim of creating a site which would be durable and offer safe, enjoyable surroundings for people to spend time.

Children and local art groups were involved in designing a mosaic which runs right through the site, while plants and greenery add some colour.

The project also gave eight unemployed locals the opportunity to take part in a six-month environmental training and employability scheme.

Pierre De Fence, director of KHA, said: “It has been a wonderful opportunity for local people to get paid training and employment.

“Some of those involved have since gained permanent employment which is fantastic.

“As far as the site is concerned, it has been transformed from a neglected, vandalised area into something that will be an asset for residents in the months and years to come.

“We would hope to see people of all ages using the facility and reaping the benefits of it.” Funding for the scheme at Watchmeal Crescent included an award of £249,250 from the Big Lottery Community Spaces Fund. An additional £76,440 was received from the Scottish Government’s People and Communities Fund, which supports community organisations.

The initiative was managed by Community Links Scotland (CLS), a charity based in Clydebank which provides regeneration and community development services to a wide range of companies.

CLS has secured more than £25 million of funds for client projects across Scotland since being set up in 2002.

The organisation worked with KHA and residents to develop the proposal including the preparation of landscape design details, assisted in securing funding and provided project management support.