A £600,000 programme to install new multi-use games areas (MUGA's) at primary schools is nearing completion in Inverclyde.

Work began on January on a £330,000 project to replace the blaes pitch at St Ninian's Primary School in Gourock.

Measuring 54 metres by 36 metres, the new surface is suitable for football, netball, basketball and general play.

In addition, the council has invested approximately £300,000 in smaller MUGA's, 15.6 metres by 10.8 metres, at six other primary schools in the area.

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They are Inverkip Primary, St Joseph's Primary, King's Oak Primary, St Francis' Primary, St Mary's Primary and St Michael's Primary.

Ardgowan Primary School has also undergone a £5.9m refurbishment, which incorporates a new 135 sq m MUGA complete with raised social space, seating and covered canopy structure.

Pupils at St John's Primary in Port Glasgow will benefit from a new MUGA as part of the £2.8m refurbishment project, which is nearing completion.

The £4.27m refurbishment of Kilmacolm Primary also includes a new MUGA to replace the existing blaes pitch which should be completed by the autumn next year.

Councillor Terry Loughran said: "We originally allocated over a million pounds for the MUGA programme but have been able to deliver it £400,000 under budget.

"That is great news and has allowed us to look at upgrading the two grass pitches at Moorfoot and Gourock primary schools."

(LM/MH)