Contractors have begun the first phase of a multi-million pounds scheme that will transform Parklea into a centre of excellence for football.

Work has started on the first of two 3G all-weather pitches after planning permission was granted earlier this month.

Inverclyde Council leader Councillor Stephen McCabe said: "Parklea is a key part of our Pitches Strategy and will become a centre of excellence for football in Inverclyde. Work on the first 3G pitch marks the start of the process that will transform the facilities available for local clubs and visitors from further afield."

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£6 million will be spent at Parklea on the two 3G all-weather pitches, a new community stadium incorporating a changing pavilion, and drainage works to the existing grass pitches.

Councillor Jim Clocherty Convener of Regeneration said: "People can now see real evidence of the Council’s commitment to providing them with first class leisure facilities. We set out our ambitious £23 million of investment in leisure a year ago and we have already delivered new 3G pitches in Gourock and Broomhill and it won’t be long before play kicks off in Parklea."

In the 2009/11 Budget Inverclyde Council set out ambitious plans for new and refurbished leisure facilities in communities across the area, including a £10.1 million new flagship multi-use leisure facility at Rankin Park.

Councillor McCabe added: "We are determined to do all we can to give people the opportunity to live active, healthy lives by providing first class facilities for sport of all kinds."

The first phase (3G pitches) is due for completion in May 2010. Further phases which include drainage for the upper and lower grass pitches and the stadium and infrastructure work are being designed and progressed.

(GK/BMcC)