A “LONG overdue” upgrade to the home of local football teams Clydebank FC and Yoker Athletic has taken another step forward.

Holm Park on Glasgow Road had been given the go ahead in September 2016 to be redeveloped into a modern playing facility with a synthetic playing surface, improved spectator area and floodlighting.

But it took until March for a planning application to be officially lodged, proposing the construction of floodlighting and fencing at the existing ground.

A £750,000 investment was made in 2016 for the upgrade of the park but has been delayed by essential surveys, particularly with major north-south gas and electricity lines running directly under the park.

Clydebank FC company secretary Stuart Kelly told the Post the planning application will allow for security fencing and flood lights and then they’ll seek a contractor for a new 3G pitch in the coming months.

He said: “It’s been a long time coming to get to this stage. The money was committed in 2016 but we are pleased the investigations and preparatory works have brought us to this stage.

“We are hopeful work will be carried out this calendar year. There is huge demand in the area for a facility like this and a shortage of facilities in terms of artificial surfaces and many have to go to East Dunbartonshire or Glasgow.

“The sooner this upgrade completes, the better for everyone in the community. It’s been a long process and clearly required patience. We acknowledge the investment by West Dunbartonshire Council and we are keen to make sure it’s a good asset for the community.”

The application will go to a future planning committee meeting of the council.

Councillor Danny Lennie, who is not on the committee himself, said he supports the overhaul and the grounds were in need of a refreshment.

He told the Post: “Both of the teams are long overdue to get an upgrade. I remember playing a cup final there when I was 14 and I don’t think it has changed since.

“We have two fairly successful teams so it’s overdue to get done up. The quicker they get it done, the better.”

The planning application can be found on the council’s website under DC18/067.