It has been announced that £300,000 is to be spent on renovating the historic Balloch Castle.

In addition, West Dunbartonshire Council has said it will also commit further funding over the next three years to ensure the 200-year-old castle remains wind and water tight.

Following a survey of the castle, it was revealed that sections of the roof and parapet walling are to be restored first in order to make the structure water-tight. This will cost around £300,000. The next stage of work will then commence, with further remedial works to high level roof structures and stone works on the exterior of the A-listed building.

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Councillor David McBride, Convener of Environmental Services and Economic Development, said: "Over many years and for a number of reasons Balloch Castle has been allowed to fall into an unacceptable condition. I'm delighted that the Council has grasped the problem and taken the necessary steps to restore this genuine historic asset.

"We are committed to spending a sizeable amount of money on Balloch Castle in the next three years and are continually looking at options to bring the castle back into much better use."

Councillor Lawrence O'Neill, Vice Convener of Environmental Services and Economic

Development, added: "I'm delighted work is finally starting on this project as it has been a real shame to see the famous castle looking so sorry for itself in recent years.

"It is another good example of how this Administration's bold and ambitious 10-year capital plan is allowing the Council to restore and improve assets such as Balloch Castle."

(JP)