The new Barrhead Foundry is expected to open later this month, east Renfrewshire Council has confirmed.

Work on the facility's library, learning and meeting spaces, as well as the business centre are due to be completed shortly. The second phase of work on the £3.8m project will then see car park and landscaping at the front of the building completed, and this is expected to be completed by Spring 2015.

Elsewhere, an upgrade of the sports hall changing areas and work to the roof will also begin, while a £200,000 refurbishment project will be undertaken in the gym. A range of cardio vascular machines – including high-tech flat screens with online apps and TV access, plus a range of resistance machines will be installed, as will a functional training and free weights area. The local authority has confirmed the gym will remain closed until the work is completed.

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In addition, the council – alongside University of the West of Scotland and West College Scotland – will work to deliver courses from Barrhead Foundry.

Councillor Tony Buchanan, Convener for Infrastructure and Sustainable Growth, said: "At £3.8m we are making a significant investment in Barrhead. The new Barrhead Foundry will be a tremendous asset to the town.

"We are delighted that we can facilitate a partnership with University of the West of Scotland and West College Scotland who will work with the council to deliver courses which local people will benefit from.

"With this wonderful new centre, plus the investment in a new Barrhead High School and the new tennis courts, the council is demonstrating that it is committed 100% to the regeneration of Barrhead and providing the very best facilities for its people."

A spokesperson for University of the West of Scotland and West College Scotland added: "For the first time ever there will be a university and college presence right in the heart of Barrhead, with the University of the West of Scotland and West College Scotland hoping to deliver courses from Barrhead Foundry."

(JP/CD)