The Masterplan was first introduced by the local authority in 2011 and is key to shaping and developing the area's future. Already, a number of projects have been completed under the scheme. They include:
• A new public square created at Barleybank (£300,000). This included new seating, a stepped area, work on the tow path and decking overlooking the canal, a stepped area and work on the tow-path. The project was funded in association with Sustrans. Barleybank car park has also been improved, with access created from New Lairdsland Road.
• A £190,000 project to create new steps, paths and handrails, and improve landscaping and lighting between Eastside and Cowgate in Kirkintilloch.
• Improvements to pavements, junctions and parking in Townhead.
• The refurbishment of canopies along one side of Cowgate.
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• Work at David Donnelly Place and Broadcroft to widen pavements, carry out resurfacing and improve landscaping.
• Improved parking behind William Patrick Library and Tantra.
Elsewhere, work is continuing to refurbish and transform Kirkintilloch Town Hall to turn it into a multi-purpose centre for arts, culture and the community.
Funding for the projects has been made available from sources such as the Scottish Government, Historic Scotland and Sustrans, while East Dunbartonshire Council's capital programme. This is separate from the revenue budget, which pays for day-to-day services, the council has said.
In a statement, Council Leader Rhondda Geekie said work is continuing on the Masterplan, but the community's feedback is vital to help it succeed.
Councillor Geekie commented: "I am pleased at the progress which has been made on the Masterplan – particularly with the work at Barleybank and improvements to pavements, parking and accessibility.
"However, there is a long way to go and we cannot do this alone. The on-going support of local businesses, residents and groups is essential. We need to work together with a range of local and national partners, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve our common goal – a thriving and sustainable town centre.
"We have got to this point through hard work – based on the aspirations of residents, businesses and visitors which have been communicated strongly to us – and it's essential that the hard work and resolve continue.
"I would ask people to be patient and keep an open mind as changes continue to take place in the town centre. I would also ask people to engage with consultation events as much as possible in the coming months."
(JP/IT)
