Work is due to begin on the development of a new waterfront walkway along the shore of the River Leven in West Dunbartonshire, following the completion of clearance works.

The clearance works, completed by West Dunbartonshire Council, included removing old structures, demolition waste and flotsam, as well as low quality vegetation and invasive species from the area.

The foreshore was also regraded with new materials to make the area more suitable for walking as well as enhancing it's look.

Work was undertaken from the west side of Dumbarton Football Club at the foot of Dumbarton Rock, along the east bank of the River Leven, to the entrance of the tidal basin throughout September and October.

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When complete, the waterfront path will link the town centre with the Rock and Castle and provide continuous public access to the foreshore of the River for the first time in 150 years.

Two sections of the path, within the site of the former Ballentine's Distillery and along the tidal basin, are currently being delivered by the landowners, Culross and Lidl. 

The remaining sections will be delivered by the landowners Turnberry Homes and Dumbarton Football Club in cooperation with the Council.

Councillor Iain McLaren, Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "When complete the waterfront path will not only give residents and visitors access to the River Leven that hasn't been available in more than a century, it will also link our historical attractions to the town centre, bringing with it the benefits of additional footfall and custom to our local businesses."

Councillor Marie McNair, Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, added: "I am pleased plans for the waterfront path are progressing and I look forward to further work being done to facilitate it. The waterfront path will make a huge difference to this area and attract visitors to the area to take in the spectacular views we have to offer."

(MH/JG)