Work to transform the site of the former St Eunan's Primary School in Clydebank into a Community Green space is set to begin next month, West Dunbartonshire Council has announced.

The £1.3million project will see new biodiversity areas, raised bed allotments, outdoor exercise equipment, play areas for children and areas for outdoor education all added.

The history and heritage of Clydebank will also been represented in the area.

Open pathways will be created through the site, providing accessible connections for pedestrians and cyclists between the town centre to the south, and residential areas to the north of the site.

The project was created following extensive consultation with residents about the best use for the site.

The area, which was previously inaccessible, has already been cleared in preparation for the project, with contractors now expected on site in July.

Councillor Iain McLaren, Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "The addition of this Community Green Space is great news for local residents.

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"Not only does it make use of an empty site, but it also improves opportunities for contact with nature and for physical activity for local children and adults. I look forward to seeing the finished project and I'm sure the community will see the benefits for years to come."

Councillor Marie McNair, Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, also said: "I am pleased to see this area being brought back into use. Having good quality green space near where we live and work is known to improve our physical and mental health and well being and I hope the community really feel the benefits of having access to this facility.

"The addition of play areas and exercise equipment mean the area will be used by kids and adults alike, and I'm pleased it will also represent the town's rich history."

The Clydebank project was awarded £375,000 as part of a major new £37.5 million Scottish programme of projects to improve the urban environment of Scotland's larger towns and cities. The Green Infrastructure Strategic Intervention, led by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), is part-funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

With 81% of Scotland's population living in urban areas, the Green Infrastructure Strategic Intervention will make the country's larger towns and cities more attractive and environmentally sustainable places to live, work and invest in. It is a Scotland-wide initiative with many partners, including local authorities and housing associations.

A public meeting is being held on Wednesday 5 June, at St Eunan's Primary School, Gilmour Street, Clydebank for residents to discuss the Clydebank project.