Work to upgrade the finishing tower at Strathclyde Country Park in North Lanarkshire is now complete.

The £680,000 scheme, which was funded by both the council and sportscotland, has been carried out to comply with the International Rowing Federation, FISA, guidelines ahead of the European Championships Glasgow 2018.

Upgrades include extending the floor space in the upper levels to allow for new judging requirements set by FISA, refurbishing the air conditioning, heating and interior space, and reglazing the building to give unrestricted sightlines for judges, commentators and broadcasters. External improvement work has also been carried out to the roof and parapet, ensuring the facility is watertight and fit for purpose for years to come.

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Speaking during the ribbon cutting ceremony on 22 July, Cllr Michael McPake said: "The work carried out to the finishing tower maintains the standard of facility we can provide here, helping to bring world class competitions to the park. Next year we will host 17 rowing events over four days as part of the European Championship, showcasing the park as a venue to a world-wide TV audience."

Stewart Harris, Chief Executive of sportscotland, said: "We recognise that this facility is vital in continuing the success of rowing at entry level as well as the need to ensure it remains fit for purpose for international competition, training and development.

"That's why we're delighted to invest funding in this project which we believe will help to provide more and better sporting opportunities, as well as maintaining the lochs status as a top class water sport venue."

(LM/MH)