Plans have been approved for a new £400,000 drainage system scheme in Inverclyde.

The project aims to tackle drainage issues at Birkmyre Park in Kilmacolm. Both rugby pitches will have drainage pipes installed under the surface, carrying excess water to the nearest water course (Gryfe Water).

Excess soil water will be carried away using perforated land drainage pipes which are carefully sized to allow very small particles to pass through the slots to be flushed out by the flow of water.

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A secondary drainage system – slit trench drainage - will be installed through the use of narrow sand-filled trenches spaced one to two metres apart. A water attenuation tank will also be installed to slowly release drainage water in a controlled discharge before it is allowed to run into the Gryfe Water to minimise the risk of flooding of the water course during heavy rain.

Before any work can begin, contractors have been told to check for badgers, otters and water voles and to ensure measures are taken to protect trees around the site.

Cllr Michael McCormick said: "The rugby pitches are an important and well-used asset in the village and I am delighted we are now in a position to press ahead. For many years training and matches have been disrupted by excess water but once this innovative scheme has been completed we should see a significant improvement."

(LM/MH)