A regeneration project for Grangemouth Town Centre has taken a "significant step forward" as contractors start work on the part demolition of La Porte Precinct and the 'Kerse Road Block'.

Over 16 weeks, contractors will level the site removing this long-standing eyesore building.

The work follows on from earlier regeneration construction work in the town centre to prepare premises for the relocation of businesses who agreed to participate in the project to reinvigorate the retail offering in the town and support the wider regeneration of the precinct.

Other regeneration activities included the installation of free public Wi-fi and footfall sensors along with a character appraisal of key buildings.

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Several businesses were relocated into the 'retail core' of the town centre including the Citizen's Advice Bureau who continue to provide valuable support to the community and Kerries Cafe, which relocated from a small unit to a significantly larger unit allowing for the business to expand its offer to customers.

Funding for the £700k regeneration project is being provided by the Scottish Governments Town Centre Capital Fund which aims to improve amenities, help regenerate town centres and boost their sustainability and success in the face of changing and evolving retail patterns.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: "The regeneration project in Grangemouth aims to respond to the high vacancy rates in the town centre and working with local businesses, come up with a reinvigorated offer to encourage higher footfall and investment.

"This, along with other future works will certainly assist with the ongoing transformation of the wider Grangemouth area that is being progressed through various infrastructure projects such as The Falkirk Growth Deal Greener Grangemouth Programme which will unlock significant funding to deliver transformational economic, inclusive, and clean growth, making the area a smarter, greener, resilient, and more inclusive place."