COUNCILLORS have praised the transformation of the “drab and boring” Dalmuir Square into a “vibrant” town centre as the second set of refurbishments gets under way.

The first phase of the project was completed last month with the opening of a new play space based on the area’s naval ship building heritage, which includes a play ship representing the construction of HMS Agamemnon in 1908.

The main works to carry out landscape improvements, create new seating and picnic benches, as well as install feature lighting, signage and disabled parking have now begun - costing more than £160,000 with works expected to be completed in late November.

Councillor Daniel Lennie said: “The Dalmuir play area has proved to be a resounding success. Not a day goes by without it being used.

“This project has been a huge success for the community who have driven this project from the start. I am extremely proud to have been part of the community team that made this project possible.

“The play park, or as the children call it ‘the boat park’, will bring not only a lot of pleasure to the children of Dalmuir but revitalises an otherwise drab and boring area.

“The environment trust team have worked extremely hard on this project and should be praised for their fantastic work on the square.”

West Dunbartonshire Council has been working with The Environment Trust and Dalmuir and Mountblow Community Council to undertake a series of improvements near the station and the multi storey flats - with the trio’s aim to create a vibrant and welcoming town centre which identifies the area as a great place to live and work.

Cllr Marie McNair told the Post: “I am delighted to see the completion of the new Dalmuir Play Area. This will not only improve the area, but it will be beneficial to the health and wellbeing of all who use it.

“I would to thank everyone who was involved in the regeneration works. I will continue to work hard to secure the resources we need.”

The project was first conceived a few years ago when The Trust and Greenspace Scotland held a workshop which brought urban designers from across Scotland together with community representatives at a training event based on the square.

The workshop recognised the “tremendous strengths and opportunities” in Dalmuir Square and in particular its central role in regenerating Dalmuir as a whole.

Murdoch Cameron, chairman of The Environment Trust, said: “This demonstrates the benefits of partnership working between community groups and public agencies to share and develop ideas and I look forward to seeing these exciting environmental improvements in Dalmuir Square.”

Councillor Iain McLaren, West Dunbartonshir’s convener of infrastructure, regeneration and economic development, added: “I know the residents of Dalmuir, many of whom had a hand in shaping these plans, will be delighted with the finished project.

“It’s fantastic to be able to create something that will be well used by local people and that also pays tribute to Dalmuir’s heritage in a meaningful way.”