By Aidan Forsyth

The first sod has been cut to mark the beginning of construction of the new Clydebank Care Home.

The multi-million pound development forms part of the transformation of Queens Quay along with the construction of the new town's health centre.

There will be a total of eight "flats" in the care home complex, one of which will have 14 bedrooms with en-suite facilities in each room. As well as this, there will be seven flats which will include 10 bedrooms each.

Each flat will also include a living and dining area, which will allow residents to maintain their own independence.

Council and health care bosses said the home will feature many modern facilities, such as a large multi-purpose shared space which can be used as a cinema for residents to view their favourite films on a large screen at their leisure.

There will also be a number of activities rooms which will allow the residents of the home to continue with their favourite hobbies and pastimes as well as a built-in hair salon and cafe for convenience.

As well as the residential services, the home will provide care for up 50 people, who will have full access to the inbuilt facilities as well as “themed garden courtyards and terraces” for a place to relax and unwind.

Councillor Marie McNair said: “The new home and day care underlines our commitment to give residents in Clydebank and beyond the opportunity to live as independently as possible, while still having access to support when they needed it.

"The facilities on offer will provide a real sense of community for all the residents living here.”

Queens Quay is currently being developed by Dawn Developments, and will also feature 200 brand new homes for social rent as well as 1,000 private homes. There is also talk of other facilities being made available such as restaurants, cafes and shops.

The care home is due to open in summer 2020.

Allan Macleod, chairman of West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “I am pleased to see work starting at the new Clydebank Care Home. This new facility will play a crucial role in improving the care of the older people in our community whilst also promoting their independence.

"The communal courtyards will let residents enjoy outdoor activities in a safe and accessible environment with outstanding views over the Clyde."