Initial work starts this week on an ambitious programme to redevelop the area around Falkirk Old parish Church as part of a £800k improvement project.

The work, commissioned by Falkirk Council, will at first see tree and shrub clearance to allow a number of enhancements to be made including:

• Pruning of existing mature trees to ensure their longevity and health.
• Removal of unhealthy tress that are potentially dangerous or a threat to other trees.
• The removal of shrub vegetation to improve visibility.
• To strengthen the ecological and environmental benefits brought from existing trees.
• The re-establishment of historic views in the town centre.

Following on from community consultation during October 2009 and planning approval in January 2010, these initial site works are expected to last approximately three weeks and are the preliminary stage of the larger project that will see heritage interpretation of the tombs, heritage resurfacing of footpaths and improved access, reconfiguration of existing car parking, restoration and conservation of ironwork, improved lighting, introduction of CCTV as well as installation of feature seating.

The works will all contribute to the overall relationship of this historic churchyard to the immediate surrounding town centre to create a more attractive environment for visitors and shoppers as well as raise awareness of the town's rich heritage.

Tenders for this work are currently being worked on and are expected to be issued end February 2010 with work expected to start on site in April 2010.

Cllr Adrian Mahoney, Convener of Community, Leisure and Tourism said: "This is an ambitious programme to transform one of Falkirk's most historical sites and we are confident that both local residents and visitors alike will see a transformation in the area.

"We are naturally concerned that all the proper steps are taken prior to carrying out any work in an important location and have consulted with the church, the planning authority and tree experts as to what is the most environmentally sensitive way forward.

"This will ensure that this locale will be properly managed for years to come allowing visitors to enjoy its natural heritage and beauty."

Funding for the project came from the Scottish Government's Town Centres Regeneration Fund awarded to redevelop town centres across Scotland in a bid to encourage investment and footfall to support the high street and local economies.

(GK/BMcC)