Work has begun to construct a new £14.5m town hall and 'civic hub' for Johnstone.

The development began with the demolition of an existing swimming pool in the town.

In place of the pool, Renfrewshire Council is building a library, theatre, marriage suite and community space, as well as office space for consolidation of existing services.

Landscaping work including planting, paving and installing new street lighting is also due to be put in place around nearby Ludovic Square.

The development will be encased in stone with a wooden interior and will create an inner access to various council services.

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The £14.5m is part of Renfrewshire Council’s £103m 'Building Better Communities' programme which is investing in schools, community and leisure facilities.

Councillor Allan Noon said: "In addition to a new town hall, the civic hub will bring together a range of existing and new public services, making it a local point for the community."

"We have worked with the community of Johnstone to get to this initial stage and we will continue working with the community over the months ahead before the finalised scheme is approved.

"Overall, we hope that the quality and range of the civic hub proposal will be welcomed and that the proposed facility will provide a boost for the town centre and the wider community of Johnstone."

A planning application is expected to be submitted later in October and completion is expected in December 2013.

Renfrewshire Council are conducting initial design work before project management is handed to Holmes Miller.

(IT)