PLANS to overhaul the centre of Clydebank for drivers and pedestrians is set to go before councillors again next week.

The “public realm works” in Dumbarton Road and Glasgow Road have been in development for years but were stalled at the last West Dunbartonshire Council planning meeting.

Concerns were raised in August by visually impaired residents and campaigners that lowered kerbs for so-called “shared spaces” could pose a risk.

The Connecting Clydebank designs stretch from the junction of Glasgow Road with Argyll Road and include reducing the speed limits to 20mph, a shared pedestrian and cycle route, new seating and lighting and improved areas around Solidarity Plaza and the International Asbestos Memorial.

Charities National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and Royal Institute of Blind People Scotland (RNIB) both objected to the removal of kerbs as a vital safety and navigational aid to blind and partially sighted residents. They said kerbs can help guide dogs know where to stop and cane users to feel the edge of a pavement.

Next week’s planning committee will hear how tactile paving will be added along with a “Button Neatebox System” at controlled crossing points and a bench at tapered steps next to the town hall.

A “Neatebox system” will also let pedestrians use a free mobile phone or smart watch app to activate a crossing without pressing the button and give more time to focus on their orientation.

Development will also only go forward once details of these new additions are submitted and agreed with planning officials.

A report to councillors states: “The proposed changes will improve the streetscape scheme and will allow safe and ease of access for all pedestrians whilst addressing previous issues raised by visually impaired users.

“It is recommended that the changes are attached as additional conditions to the permission which includes a scheme for the ongoing monitoring of the works associated with ‘Connecting Clydebank’ to ensure that any issues for users, specifically those with disabilities including individuals living with dementia, are identified and addressed where possible.”

The planning committee meets on November 14.