Demolition work has commenced on Fleming House, a former office building in Cumbernauld, marking the first stage of a 15-year regeneration plan for the town centre.

Kilsyth-based Beattie Demolition has been appointed by North Lanarkshire Council to carry out the demolition project.

The demolition of Fleming House is the first step in a wider regeneration scheme that will also see the demolition of the Centre Cumbernauld shopping centre. The council aims to replace the shopping centre with a new town hub, incorporating education, health, community, and leisure facilities, as well as improved public transport and modern retail and commercial outlets.

Earlier this year, a public consultation was held to gather feedback on concept designs for the new town centre. Over 1,600 people participated in the consultation, either online or in person at Cumbernauld Library.

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"Fleming House has been a landmark in the town centre for many years, and its demolition signals the start of our plans for the new future for Cumbernauld," said Council Leader Councillor Jim Logue.

"Our recent consultation has given us valuable feedback from residents and businesses on what facilities and services are needed. This will inform our detailed designs for the redevelopment over the next few years.

"Thank you to everyone who visited the exhibition and viewed the plans online. This was only the first stage of consultation with more opportunities for local residents to be involved as we develop the Cumbernauld Town Masterplan."

The majority of people who visited the exhibition and spoke to council officers were supportive of the regeneration plans and wanted a town centre they can be proud of.

Among the points and questions raised were: the impact of any changes to Central Way and the need for ample car parking; a desire for leisure facilities to be retained; what education facilities would be included in the town hub; improved accessibility to public buildings; and support for a town square with green space and opportunities for local events.

There will be no anticipated impact on the surrounding roads and car parks during the demolition, which is expected to be complete by summer 2025.